Another key issue is the demand by Burma's ethnic groups to enjoy equal political, social and economic rights. The Constitution must guarantee the rights of self-determination and of equal representation for every ethnic group in the Parliament. It must also include provisions against racial discrimination.
Aung San Suu Kyi supports all such rights for the ethnic nationalities, while the military leaders are unwilling to do so. Hence this question has generated half a century of civil strife.
Although Than Shwe may be trying not to look like a villain, he is failing in that attempt. The majority of the ethnic groups hate the military and its leaders for their crimes against humanity in the ethnic areas. Suu Kyi has always denounced the military for these crimes. She is the great advocate of all ethnic nationalities in Burma.
In conclusion, Burma is at a crucial crossroads now. Than Shwe's verdict against Aung San Suu Kyi will have an enduring impact on the unfortunate nation. This verdict will create more civil defiance and new civil wars in Burma.
All ethnic nationalities, including the Burmese, have a strong determination to fight for their freedom, justice and equality. They also know clearly that the junta's 2010 election is a pair of iron shackles to enslave them.
Therefore, since Than Shwe has rejected the Lady's offer of national reconciliation, it is inevitable that he will face new challenges including civil disobedience and rebellion.
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