NLD Statement 89 (translation)

[nldburma@xxxxxxxxxxx]

National League for Democracy
No:(97/B), West Shwegondine Road
Bahan Township, Rangoon

STATEMENT 89(7/99)(translation)


1.  Information to hand is that villagers in Kyi-bin-su and its vicinity
(Moulmeingyun township, Ayeyawaddy division) are being recruited for
forced labour. The Infantry Division (534) has stipulated that one
person per household be assigned for labour and in cases where labour
cannot be given, Kyats 6000/- to 7000/- per village tract be collected
for the alleged task of cultivation of paddy. The area for such
cultivation is over 100 acres of muddy swamps where buffaloes and cows
graze. The forced labour is actually for the building of an embankment
(5' high and 20' wide).  In spots where manual labour is not possible
the people are forced to pay for the cost of mechanical devices.

2.  The people have to make their own travel arrangements to the
workplace at their own expense. Having no money there is no other option but 
to ask for loans and/or advancement payments from the landowners for 
whatever work they are required to do in the fields.  This has caused much 
anguish and distress for them. Their work schedule at the commencement of 
the rainy season is disrupted because of the "forced
labour" requirements.

3.  Though the higher authorities have given instructions to stop
"forced labour", the practice continues.  We ask that proper supervision
be made to stop the deplorable behaviour and activity of the lower
echelons in power.


Central Executive Committee
National League for Democracy

Rangoon
5 July 1999


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