Vote to Nowhere

The May 2008 Constitutional Referendum in Burma

Map of Burma

I. Summary and Recommendations

Recommendations to Concerned Governments

Methodology

II. Political Process 1962 – 2008..

The First Rigged Referendum – 1973

The 1988 Student Unrest and the Army Massacres

The Stolen 1990 Elections: SLORC Overturns the NLD's Election Victory

The National Convention: 14 Years of "Guided" Constitution-Writing

The "Seven Step Roadmap to Democracy"

Constitution Drafting and the Renewed "Path to Democracy"

III. Impossible Conditions for a Free and Fair Referendum..

Lack of Information about the Constitution

Lack of Media Freedom..

Restrictions on Freedom of Expression, Assembly, and Association

Freedom of expression

Freedom of association and assembly

Continued Widespread Detention of Political Activists

Lack of Independent Monitoring Structures, and SPDC Control over the Organs of State

IV. A Constitution for Military Dominance

Entrenchment of Military Power

Barring of Opposition Members from Elected Offices

Provisions on the "Fundamental Rights and Duties of Citizens"

V. International Response to the Referendum..

Appendix I: Glossary

Acknowledgements