Absolute power: Burma's army controls economy and government

Article Abstract:

Burma's army has far more power and tighter control over the country than any other Asian nation's, and it is preparing to cement the situation with a new, dictated constitution. Drawing heavily on Indonesia's 'dwifungsi' concept, it will let the military appoint 25% of both houses of govt. Just as the military totally controlled a supposedly socialist economy for many years, it now runs a theoretically capitalist one. An aggressive revision of history to justify the military's position is also underway.

Cover Story, Military government, Civil-military relations

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Burning ultimatum: cross-border attacks timed to force Karen rebel hand

Article Abstract:

Burma is due to join Asean in 1997 following years of isolation and Thai army commander-in-chief Gen. Chettha Thanajaro is to visit the country to discuss common border problems. Burmese troops crossed into Thailand recently, attacking refugee camps housing ethnic Karens who had fled the civil war. Observers believe it was an attempt to pressure the Karens to accept a cease-fire, however neither military action or the cease-fires are expected to guarantee peace for civilians.

Thailand

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