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There have been a lot of criticisms in the media outside Burma about his involvement in business deals with the junta, especially his connection to the electronic passport program being implemented in Burma. What do you think of him combining roles? A: I consider Mr Razali as someone who actually wants to see appropriate changes in Burma….someone who has a good heart for Burma. I like the activities he has carried out, and I support them. But regarding the comment he made that the situation here has improved, I think you should ask him again. During his last visit, Mr Razali said he thinks the changes may take place faster, and that the negotiations may begin within weeks or within a month. There were some discrepancies between what Mr Razali said and what Prime Minister Mahathir and Sec-1 [Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt] told the press. Therefore, I think it would be more appropriate to ask Mr Razali about it. Q: I have spoken to you before about the printing of party newsletters and other party publications. Have you received any permits to do this? Have there been any new developments in this area? A: No permit has been issued yet, so I cannot say that there has been any development in this regard. Q: Burma's economic situation is getting worse. The kyat has again dropped. There have been numerous criticisms that [the regime] has used short-term measures to boost the economy. How will this affect the economy? A: When the economy is in shambles, the social conditions of the country only get worse. When both of these factors continue to worsen, it is the people who have to bear the brunt. Our country will suffer greatly if the current dismal economic situation cannot be reversed. Q: We have received information that Thai authorities raided the offices of some Burmese pro-democracy activists. There have also been news and reports indicating that the Burmese junta has criticized and pressured Thailand for sheltering Burmese exiles. Do you want to say anything on this? A: I am a firm believer that individuals should have the right to engage in political activities based on one’s own beliefs. We have been doing just that in Burma for the past 14 years. Therefore, it is not appropriate to crackdown on dissidents and pro-democracy activists who do not break the laws [in their host countries]. This interview was conducted in Burmese and translated into English. Excerpts of this interview were broadcast on Radio Free Asia [Burmese Service].