8 August 2013

Statement on 25th Anniversary of the Quadruple Eight Uprising

Today marks the 25th anniversary of historic nationwide protests against the Burma Socialist Programme Party (BSPP) regime. The mass protests widely known as the Quadruple Eight Uprising (8.8.88) brought down the Ne Win regime although the movement was brutally suppressed by his loyal army. Approximately 3,000 peaceful protesters were massacred during the Quadruple Eight Uprising. On this day, we honour the families of the protesters who lost their lives during the struggle. We pay tribute to the fallen heroes who fought for the freedom of the country from military dictatorship. We are steadfast in our support for the emergence of a genuine democracy in Burma. We will continue to work towards the ultimate goal that everyone in Burma can enjoy the core values of democracy such as justice, liberty, and equality. The irreversible reform proclaimed by the government led by ex-generals has not benefited the majority. The reform such as freedoms of leading opposition politicians and limited media freedoms and civil liberties is a mere faade concealing the abuses inflicted upon the lesser-known activists and organisations. Ongoing reform process has turned national reconciliation into elite co-optation as a mutually beneficial process has developed only between a handful of opposition figures and the government. The reforms in Burma are not credible until and unless a GENUINE, and NATIONAL reconciliation is achieved. Therefore, we are determined to stand with the oppressed people of Burma in the course of struggle for a genuine democracy and national unity. We will remain resolute in working with the underprivileged for their better future and freedom. On this day, we extend our deepest thoughts and prayers to the families of those killed, wounded, imprisoned and tortured in 1988.

Burma Independence Advocates Building 3, Chiswick Park 566 Chiswick High Road Chiswick, London W4 5YA United Kingdom