A 'No' Vote Means 'Let's Have a Dialogue'

Recently, the UN special envoy to Burma, Ibrahim Gambari, told The Irrawaddy, “I do not see an alternative to dialogue.” Unfortunately, we see many alternatives to a dialogue—all of them bad for Burmese citizens.

The May 10 referendum may well be a springboard to more bloodshed, pain and suffering. Or, it may offer some hope for positive change.

The real power to determine the country’s future remains in the hands of the junta and the upper-level officer corps, which has remained loyal to misguided dictators since 1988.

We are living in dangerous times, but a “No” vote is the best option for Burmese citizens to bring about a dialogue.