Bashed and Battered in Burma

For the Burmese people, the bashing they received for last September's anti-government protests from Military forces is nothing compared to the battering they received from the forces of nature. This time, the ruling Military Junta is gentler to their plight and more supportive of their predicament. The change in orientation may be humanitarian as well as patriotic, since their own countrymen are suffering from the devastating cyclone that struck with uncharacteristic ferocity. However, suspicions of political expediency from the opposition casts aspersions on the Junta's intent, but regardless of all fears and years of anger, they need the government's help now.

The scale and magnitude of Saturday's cyclone has compelled the government to seek help from the international community. Burmese complain of inadequate support and insufficient visibility and assistance from the government. The death toll has risen to a little over 22,000 and hundreds of thousands are in dire need of water, shelter and food. Relief agencies have been allowed entry into affected areas, including airlifting of supplies. International aid agencies are expected to place pressure on the Junta to allow urgent supplies into the Karen and Arakan states in the South West. Areas closed to foreigners for years because of abject poverty and violent repression of ethnic minorities.

The Burmese government has been on the international radar for some time for the continued house arrest of opposition leader Aung San Su Kyi, and the crackdown on monks through violent dispersals and arrests. The Junta announced a new constitution scheduled for referendum on May 10, and the opposition wonders why no call has been made to postpone it. Fears that a postponement would drum up more support for a rejection have been raised by anti-government elements; but counter arguments for an early vote is also seen as unfavorable to the government because of the anger generated by their inept handling of the cyclone disaster.

In the midst of the already miserable conditions of their economy, topped by the powerful devastation of their meager dwellings and resources, and complete disintegration of their means for survival; the Burmese people are still being fed political refuse. Politicians are concerned with their need to survive politically, without much concern for the basic survival their countrymen need, whom they have declared to serve and protect. A Constitutional Referendum is farthest from the people's minds, and these politicians fail to realize or recognize the very reality of their present anguish and agony. For the long suffering Burmese people, it's apparent their bashing and battering will be bottomless.

Harrrrwwwwk...Twoooooph...Ting!