[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 141 (Thursday, October 3, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1913]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      SUPPORT FOR AUNG SAN SUU KYI

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DANA ROHRABACHER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 3, 1996

  Mr. ROHRABACHER. Mr. Speaker, the Burmese regime is once again 
cracking down on Aung San Suu Kyi and her democratic movement. The 
large scale repression and violence by Burma's tyrants we have 
witnessed over the past week justifies a tougher approach toward the 
Rangoon regime.
  I introduced legislation this year to impose economic sanctions on 
Burma. Although that legislation did not become law, the American 
people are becoming more familiar with the tragic situation in Burma. I 
intend to reintroduce similar legislation concerning Burma in the 105th 
Congress if I am reelected.
  Last month, the Burmese regime held a long press conference during 
which various officials criticized Aung San Suu Kyi and the United 
States. Specifically, the Burmese criticized the International 
Republican Institute, and its program officer, Mr. Michael Mitchell, 
for working with the democratic forces inside Burma. That kind of 
criticism is a badge of honor.
  Although the international spotlight rarely shines on Burma, I am 
watching closely what is happening in that tortured land. The 
escalating reign of terror against democracy activists and hilltribe 
people belies Rangoon callous disregard for the infinite value of human 
life.
  Mr. Speaker, the American people stand behind Aung San Suu Kyi and I 
am proud the International Republican Institute is doing what it can to 
support democracy in Burma.

                          ____________________