Sai Ai Pao, leader of the Shan Nationalities Democratic Party (SNDP), that had won an Upper House seat at the April 1 by-elections, says it may take some time before the military-drawn 2008 constitution can be amended.

“I heartily welcome Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to the Union Assembly,” he told SHAN. “I also welcome her promise to amend the constitution. We are ready to join her to make a concerted effort. But it will take time to prepare. I don’t think it can be amended in a short time.”

During her campaign speech delivered on 14 March, the NLD leader said her 3 point prioritized aims were “the rule of law, internal peace and constitutional amendments.”

She also announced her 3 step peace proposal: “nationwide ceasefire, seek negotiations and solutions by holding political talks, and find common ground in order to build a genuine union based on equality which is the basis of Panglong as aspired by the national races.”

While the Fighting Peacock Party, as the NLD is known, has 47 seats (including those of 4 returnees that had won in the 2010 elections), the White Tiger, as the SNDP is known, has 58 seats.

The SNDP ran for 3 seats in the by-elections and won 1 seat (National Assembly) but was defeated by the ruling party, Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) in Sagaing (National Assembly) and by the NLD in Kalaw (People’s Assembly).

Sai Ai Pao, 66, is also serving as Minister of Mining in the Shan State Government headed by Sao Aung Myat, a USDP nominee.

Article 435 of the constitution stipulates that an amendment bill submitted by 20% (133 representatives) of the total number (664 representatives) of the Pyidaungu Hluttaw (Union Assembly) representatives will be considered. Amendment of basic principles such as “the Defence Services to be able to participate in the National political leadership role” requires not only approval by more than 75% of the Union Assembly but also by a nationwide referendum.