Former student leader Min Ko Naing and his 88 Generation Students group have created a movement which gives ordinary Burmese a political voice. The celebrated social and political activist, who spent 15 years in prison for his leadership during the nationwide pro-democracy uprising in 1988, now heads a peaceful activist organization. The Irrawaddy speaks to Min Ko Naing about his group and its role in promoting democratic reform in the military-led country.

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What impact do you think this new movement is having on the political and social development in Burma?

John

This action is very likeable, but I am afraid it will not be sufficient. A dictature (Marcos, Suharto...) is only shot down by the mass in the street

Ko Min Ko Naing and his Student-activists group including Ma Su Su Nway become role models in terms of their peaceful campaigns with the birthrights and freedom are inspired by those of the others who are also with them under the repressive rule in the country as well as those of the others who already have their rights and freedom around the world.

There won’t be a solution to solve Burma’s problems even if the military government incarcerates the activists repeatedly or the government kills the activists.
If anyone of activists were gunned down, the government must be held the most responsible for it. No solution and only more matters will be arisen from it.

There is a solution can solve Burma’s problems is a national dialogue and mutual respects. Burma’s problems must come through this process.

The military government must come to realize that Burma’s problems cannot be solved by military means like getting armed rebel groups into so-called exchanging arms for peace program.

The generals must understand peace can not be made by arms. Peace can be made by peaceful attitudes towards peace.