Tyranny of the Absurd: Assessing the Implications of the Pyinmana Move

By Nanda Kyaw Thu

The recent transfer of Burma's capital from Rangoon to Pyinmana in Mandalay Division has prompted much debate over the State Peace and Development Council's motivations. Deliberating over intentions, however, provides limited understanding of the effects of the transfer on ethnic opposition groups, the pro-democracy movement, Burma's relations with ASEAN, and reactions within the international community. While prompting little immediate change in the internal political environment, the move represents yet another absurd decrees meant to bolster military rule.

True Experiences: People Speak Out

By Naw Sunday Htoo

Life under the control of the State Peace and Development Council is a struggle for survival. Forced relocation and displacement severely undermine people’s survival structures, ensuring that their future existence is a daily fight. Not to mention the forced labour, arbitrary taxation and looting that people frequently endure at the hands of the SPDC. Despite the odds, people continue to live. Here are their stories….