SUU KYI ACTIVISTS SET FOR TALKS (r)

[rhorn@xxxxxx]

Dear Burmanet Readers,

To those of you who are angered by Aung Zaw's statement in a recent AP 
story about the NLD making a mistake:

I am the journalist who conducted the interview with Aung Zaw. A few 
clarifications need to be made.

First, the Sydney MOrning Herald piece that appeared on Burmanet is a 
combinatin of two AP stories which were much longer than what the Herald 
ran. So, in more than one way, this quote was taken out of context.

Second, Aung Zaw's quote came from a 20-minute interview in which he said 
a variety of things, not least of which was that he also believed the 
SLORC was trying to split the NLD. Because other people voiced the same 
opinion, their quotes ended up getting used on that point rather than 
Aung Zaw's.

Third, personal attacks on Aung Zaw, or speculating that he is seeking 
favor from the SLORC, are uncalled for and simply unfair. If you examine 
his work, it is clear that he is independent and fair. It is the job of 
an independent journalist and a free press to question all sides, parties 
and positions if they are to be credible. If you disagree with him, 
criticize what he wrote or said, don't attack him personally.

Lastly, if you read the longer story carefully, the comments and 
statements about who is looking good or coming off as stubborn or 
selfish, are mainly about appearances. In all likelihood, the SLORC 
scored some public relations points in certain quarters with their move. 
Aung Zaw was only one of many people who expressed that view. It is not a 
statement that the SLORC's intentions were genuine, and ample space was 
given in that story to contrary opinions and analysis.

Open debate is an essential component of free, democratic societies. 
Personal attacks don't advance knowledge or freedom.

Sincerely,
Robert Horn
The Associated Press
Bangkok, Thailand