Myanmar nationals in shirts saying ‘No’ barred from voting

Gulf Times
Singapore: Many Myanmar nationals living in Singapore were prevented from voting on their country’s draft constitution yesterday when they refused demands from embassy personnel to remove red T-shirts saying “No,” a spokesman said.
An estimated 1,000 citizens lined up in front of the embassy for the third straight day of the five-day period designated for those abroad to cast ballots ahead of voting in the country on May 10.
“It’s a sham referendum,” said Myo Mying Maung, spokesman for the Overseas Burmese Patriots. “It’s not free or fair.” Several said they were denied entrance to the embassy because they did not have an invitation or were not on a list, but had brought their passports.

Myo, a 23-year-old student, said he brought his passport and was still told he lacked other documents.
Others sported T-shirts reading, “We pursue peace, justice and democracy for Burma.”
Those wearing the shirts refused to take them off and were not admitted to the embassy.
“We have a right to wear what we want,” said an angry participant.
Police stood outside, but the gathering was peaceful. Outdoor protests are banned in the city-state without a police license.
An estimated 500 Myanmar nationals were still waiting when the embassy closed its doors for the day. The crowd finally dispersed. Among them were several monks.
Since the voting started on Friday, hundreds of Myanmar citizens have managed to vote in the city-state. The referendum marks the first time citizens have voted in 18 years.
Estimates of the number of Myanmar nationals in Singapore range from 30,000 to 100,000 people.
Myanmar’s ruling junta said the vote is aimed a paving the way for democratic elections in 2010. Critics say it is an attempt by the military to stay in power.
The draft constituion drawn up by the government keeps pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from running for office.
International condemnation of Myanmar’s regime has mounted since soldiers were deployed in September to violently end anti-government protests. – DPA

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