Burmese President Thein Sein denied the existence of “hardliner” and “reformist” factions in his new government in response to speculation by political observers concerning severe divisions in his administration.
His comments came during a lengthy speech before the Union Parliament in Napayidaw on Thursday morning which was televised live on state-run television station MRTV 4.
Thein Sein said that he heard the rumors concerning “hard” and “soft” factions in his government, but that this was not the case.
His statement counters accusations by commentators, journalists and opposition leaders who have spoken openly about hardliners within the new government actively trying to block reformist moves by the administration.
Last year, a commentary by a senior Burmese official published in the Thailand-based English language Bangkok Post newspaper confirmed that there are elements in the new government which stand in the way of democratic reform.
Constitutional amendments, the rule of law, economic development, internet freedom, education, human rights and internal peace were all also highlighted in Thein Sein’s speech.
He said that as Burma has been isolated from a long time, forging a recovery of the national economy is crucially important. The rule of law was also a key component for an emerging democratic nation, he said.
“The national economic recovery is a priority for the government,” said Thein Sein. It is therefore necessary to try to invite domestic and foreign investment and support inside the country, he added.
Thein Sein also said that his government will work on better telecommunications such as internet access across the country, and planned to set up an online library for the education of students.
A constitutional amendment would be made for the interest of the people of Burma, said Thein Sein. He added that the government was elected by civilians, and so would try to achieve the national reconciliation desired by civilians.
He also said that the government will try to protect labor rights and increase the salary of civil servants as well as relax restrictions on the media.
The president explained that the government was working on tax reductions for civil servants. Some concessions have already been implemented such as reducing the price of phones, cars and transportation.
Thein Sein, a former general, took office in March last year. Afterward, a series of political reforms have emerged such as the release of political prisoners, including pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, as well as concessions on political dissidents and media workers.
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