RANGOON — Thousands of people rallied in eastern Rangoon on Sunday afternoon to show their support for the campaign to amend Burma’s 2008 Constitution.
The demonstration was part of the opposition National League for Democracy (NLD) and the 88 Generation Peace and Open Society’s joint efforts to drum up public support for changing the charter, which was drafted by the former military regime and approved by a referendum widely seen as rigged.
A procession of supporters dressed in the NLD’s red, chanting their demand to amend the Constitution, made its way around Thaketa Township, culminating at Dawbon sports field for music and speeches.
The campaign is focusing on amending Article 436 of the Constitution, which calls for three quarters of Parliament to approve amendments, giving the military—which automatically controls 25 percent of seats—an effective veto.
Similar events have been held around the country in recent months, and last week, NLD Chairwoman Aung San Suu Kyi and 88 Generation leader Min Ko Naing spoke at a rally in Rangoon’s Bahan Township.