Burma's Opposition Wants Observers

Reuters
RANGOON -Burma's main opposition party called yesterday for international observers of a May 10 constitutional referendum, saying its "No" campaigners are being assaulted and their materials seized in the run-up to the vote. A National League for Democracy spokesman said at least three campaigners were attacked by unknown assailants in Rangoon. "For this reason, it is now obvious that the forthcoming referendum cannot be free and fair," the party's executive committee said in a statement demanding foreign observers, including some from the UN. Last month, Kyaw Hsaw, the country's Information Minister, promised the vote would be "free and fair" and rejected the UN's offers of technical assistance and monitors. Western critics say the charter is a ploy to entrench 46 years of army rule.