Dear Committee for Shan State Unity (CSSU), Monks and Citizens,

Physically I am unable to do much, but from my armchair and writing I have always supported the unity of the Shan people since the period of “independence” versus the “federation” amongst the Shan. I have refused to be drawn into any party and take sides.

My principle was that I support all peoples of the Shan State.

Now, I am more than overwhelmed to hear that the CSSU, are listening to the call of the monks and people and have considered to work together, and unite as a single force.

I am also very pleased that the civilians have for the first time dared to voice their opinion.

This shows that the Tais are entering the first phase of true democracy, and may this continue in spite of many more obstacles and difficulties are still in front of them. As we all know, in true democracy the voice and will of the people count. When a good leader has the support of the whole population wonderful things can happen.

I am looking forward to the time when all the diverse groups of people in the Shan State can work together for the benefit and common good of the Motherland.

Why Unity is essential for the survival of the Shan State and its Diverse peoples?

The Tai Yai , the Wa, Pa-O, Palaumg, Danu, Intha, Kachin. Lisu, Lahu, Kaw and other smaller groups who live on the Shan Plateau are all citizens of the Shan States, their common Motherland. In the past before 1962 these diverse groups lived harmoniously sided by side. Each was able to move about and trade freely with one another. All, without restriction were free to follow their own religion, way of life and speak their own language.

But during the last fifty years these groups without exception have suffered tremendously at the hands and wrath of the Burmese dictatorial regimes. They have been forced, bribed and encouraged to be divided and become enemies. To a certain extent the regime has succeeded, and due to insecurity and fear each ethnic group has become suspicious of each other. If they continue to feel and behave this way they will be complying with what the regime wants, and are likely to lose the whole motherland and all the resources. Whatever culture and language they have left will disappear forever and once gone it will be impossible to revive.

The Peoples of the Shan State are now facing the death of their own identity, and the disappearance of theirs and their ancestral land. People who feel strongly about preserving things that are valuable and important to them should come together, unite and fight for their common goal or cause.

Unity gives strength; strength gives hope; hope gives vision and vision gives courage towards a victory.

Many Shans are still very confused about the word “Unity.” They still cannot make up their minds when and where to use their “similarities” and individual “differences”.

We are all human beings and we recognise that every man and woman has his or her own opinion. We choose different jobs and environments in which we like to live and work in.

But often people with the same opinion and values come together and fight or campaign for the common desire of the group or party. Such unity can achieve success, while an individual may fail. Sometimes, we also have to compromise and give in to the majority with the most votes for the common good of all concerned.

For example in Britain, there are two opposing parties the Conservatives and Labour. They have different views, but when it comes to fighting the enemies, as in World War II or in the Falklands they unite to fight for the sake of the country and people. Here in spite their political differences and they united to fight against the foe. They made a decision to put the more important thing first.

Likewise, the Shan must during this existing crisis should choose to tackle the most important and essential issue first and leave the less ones for when the time is right.

Myy Soong Kha, and best wishes to all- ready to support and help
From,
Sao Noan Oo