Civic groups demand suspending organizations bill

Civic groups demand suspending organizations bill

Published on Sunday, 04 August 2013 16:24

Over 50 civic organizations in Myanmar have called on the lawmakers to scrap the Organizations Bill alleging that the legislation is unfair to them as it restrict their activities.

They released a statement on July 27 asking the government for redrawing the bill together with civic organizations.

Their statement said the bill violates constitutional rights of the citizens, and it hinders development of civic associations in the country.

"The role of civic organizations is the most significant in education, health and poverty alleviation programmes which are related with nation-building. Most of these important organizations will be made illegal once the bill is signed into law," said a responsible person from the civic organizations' group that issued the statement.

According to the statement, if the bill is approved against the will of civic organizations, there will be negative consequences on the ongoing peace process, preparation for ASEAN People's Forum and other activities between the government and the civic groups.

"Myanmar will succeed in democratic changes only when the bill that concerns with the whole people can protect civic organizations which are working towards nation-building and ensuring the citizens' rights," he said.

There are restrictive sections in the chapter (3) about formation of central committee and their responsibilities, in the chapter (4) about formation of local organizations, in the chapter (7) about the life-time of organizations and its extension, in the chapter (8) about restrictions and in the chapter (9) about offenses and penalties, according to the statement.

International organizations and experts frequently highlight that the role of civic organizations in Myanmar needs to be promoted for the country's transition not to backtrack and to gain their support in nation-building. However, the civic organizations said their participation roles are still controlled in many sectors.

Source: http://www.news.myanmaronlinecentre.com/2013/08/05/civic-groups-demand-suspending-organizations-bill/