Link to this page: http://www.socialistparty.org.uk/issue/505/3254
From The Socialist newspaper, 11 October 2007
Burmese students join London march
AS PART of a day of protest in cities worldwide, thousands of Burmese students were among the marchers in London on 6 October, with red headbands and vociferous demands for an end to dictatorship in Burma.
Clare Doyle
Many expressed concern for their families and for the leaders of street demonstrations put down by force. Communications are blocked, night raids continue and thousands are held by the military.
Yet the demonstrators were also celebrating the Burmese protesters' heroism and the worldwide solidarity.
There was anger at foreign firms supporting the brutal, corrupt regime but also a realistic acceptance that neither economic sanctions nor declarations from international bodies will bring about its downfall. "If European firms pull out, the gap is filled by Chinese or Indian firms," demonstrators said.
One of the march's main slogans was 'Free Aung San Suu Kyi!' – leader of the opposition NLD party held in great respect.
Her release would be a real sign that the regime was cracking, but many were wary of a compromise with the generals. Any democratic rights they are forced to concede should be used to step up the struggle for a lasting solution.
The main task is to organise in Burma, especially in the workplaces, to achieve coordinated action, up to and including a general strike.
Veterans of Burma's 1988 rising, on the London march, agreed that once workers are on the move, a concerted appeal to soldiers could break the army and pave the way for victory.
In Burma the idea of 'socialism' is associated with the generals' takeover of power in 1962.
Despite this, on this demonstration, our Socialist Party petitions, leaflets and newspaper were warmly appreciated. Generous donations were still coming in after all copies of the socialist had gone!
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In The Socialist 11 October 2007:
Gloucestershire shows determination
Marching in support of the Burslem 12
Anger at Leighton, Crozier and Brown
Determination to continue the battle
Socialist Party NHS campaign
What we think
Brown's expedient election climb-down
War and terrorism
Anti-war movement upholds right to protest
Burmese students join London march
Socialism 2007
Socialism 2007: Debates to sharpen your socialism
Socialist Party news and analysis
Cuts kill - no reductions in the fire service!
Socialist Party feature
1917 October Revolution: the working class took power
International socialist news and analysis
Darfur bloodshed fuelled by land and oil grab
Iraq occupation: Brown's token gesture
Workplace news and analysis
Civil servants march against cuts and privatisation
National Shop Stewards Network holds meetings around the country
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