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The military ruled Myanmar has adopted a new national pro-military constitution, following a heavily criticized referendum held earlier this month. The state television read a statement by senior general Than Shwe, the head of the military government, saying that 92.48 percent of the voters had endorsed the charter. On Thursday it was revealed that the voters turn out had been 98.12 percent.
The referendum took place amidst the devastation left by cyclone Nargis. Human rights organizations have, however, criticized the ruling military junta of Myanmar for pushing ahead with the vote in the immediate aftermath of the cyclone.
The Charter further cements the grip of the ruling generals, giving them broad powers to declare a state emergency and seize the direct control of government. The ruling military government says the constitution will pave the way for a return to democratic rule with general elections in 2010. Critics, however. suggest that the provisions of the constitution belie its commitment to democracy.
The Charter further cements the grip of the ruling generals, giving them broad powers to declare a state emergency and seize the direct control of government. The ruling military government says the constitution will pave the way for a return to democratic rule with general elections in 2010. Critics, however. suggest that the provisions of the constitution belie its commitment to democracy.
