NLD fair raises $11,000 USD for political prisoners, HIV

Monday, 03 January 2011 22:31 Ko Wild

Chiang Mai (Mizzima) - The National League for Democracy (NLD) has raised 11 million kyat (approx. $11,000 USD) from sales at a trade fair organized to commemorate Burmese Independence Day.

Independence Day, which falls on January 4, this year marks 63 years since Burma achieved independence from British rule.

The trade fair was held at the NLD’s Bahan headquarters.

Traditional costumes were sold alongside postcards designed by pro-democracy icon, Aung San Suu Kyi, as well as calendars and key rings featuring her portrait.

Books and gifts donated by Suu Kyi and NLD central committee member Win Tin were also sold.

“Aung San Suu Kyi and Win Tin donated their new year gifts for sale”, NLD spokesman Ohn Kyaing told Mizzima.

Profits from the trade fair will be managed by NLD charitable organisation to aid political prisoners and people living with HIV.

The amount was not adequate to cover the education and health needs of all political prisoners’ children, Ohn Kyaing said.

The trade fair will continue in the lead up to tomorrows Independence Day ceremony at NLD headquarters, where a new volunteer program to support the families of political prisoners will be launched.

Prominent former political prisoners will also hold an Independence Day event at Thakhin Thein Pe’s residence tomorrow morning before joining NLD activities, he said.