Francis Khoo Thwe

The AAPP movement reports "ongoing arrests" of journalists and ordinary citizens fighting for their civil liberties. In 2014, 85 arrests were carried out for crimes of opinion. At present, 59 political prisoners are still in jail. The group appeals to the international community not to relent their pressure. Aung San Suu Kyi signs petition for constitutional reforms.

A movement made up of 97 multi-ethnic and multi- confessional groups rejects the reform proposal desired by Buddhist extremists and supported by the President. It limits the freedom of women and is written for reasons of "political interest". Give priority to Constitutional reform and the peace process.

Benedict Rogers, East Asia chief for Christian Solidarity Worldwide, looks at the situation in the Asian country a year before it holds elections. He calls for the military to pull back from Kachin territory and slams the dehumanisation of the Rohingya Muslim minority. Instead of democracy, the talk is about easing the chains of repression. The chance of constitutional amendments remains slim.

Co-founder of the National League for Democracy, he spent 19 years in prison and 12 in isolation. Aung San Suu Kyi speaks of "grave loss", but points out that "his words and his example will remain with us" the Archbishop of Yangon speaks to AsiaNews of the "tireless fighter against the dictatorship". In protest, even as a freeman he continued to wear the blue shirt of detainees.

The archbishop of Yangon and 80 priests led the celebration before 1,400 worshippers. The prelate highlighted the "happiness" of being in the service of the community and the "strong relationship" with God. He also noted the importance of community involvement in the practice of faith and parish life.

The Asian director of Christian Solidarity Worldwide speaks of his special bond with the country and the Archbishop of Yangon. Water as an element of purification, which unites Catholics and Buddhists who are celebrating major holidays together in 2014. The universality of the Church "does not mean uniformity", but appreciation of the local culture. The Burmese Church is "a vibrant Church".

A group of local NGOs , including Christian and Catholic organizations, warn of a crisis in the State in northern Myanmar. In the last few days - in conjunction with the census - the fighting has intensified, at least 3 thousand people take flight. Part of the displaced have found refuge across the border in China. Appeals for a ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks.

In his message to the faithful, Archbishop Charles Bo calls for "tolerance among religions” amid strong tensions between Buddhist and Muslim. He calls for "unity in diversity " and " peace and prosperity " for the country . Christians’ duty to " remove barriers and break down the walls". A call to confession and reconciliation to celebrate the Risen Christ.

Archbishop Charles Bo describes the period of preparation for Easter in the Burmese capital and initiatives of solidarity, especially for the poorest people of the diocese. Fasting on one meal a day a popular practice. Social and spiritual animation programs aimed at children.

Archbishop Charles Bo comments on the upcoming government census, the first in 30 years. It "sets the stage" for the process of "peace and development". An invitation to preserve the “common good”. Controversy over non- inclusion of Rohingya among recognized ethnic groups.

Mgr Charles Bo, archbishop of Yangon, led the solemn celebrations marking the 112th anniversary of the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes. At least 100,000 people perform the pilgrimage. In his homily, the prelate spoke of an "historic opportunity for reconciliation, mentioning the missionaries whose sacrifice nurtured the "the seed of faith."

Archbishop Bo led the ordination of the new bishop of Hakha in a ceremony attended by more than 4,000 people, with Christians from other denominations. The occasion gave everyone an opportunity to celebrate and rejoice, in a practical response to the "divisions" that can seriously undermine a community. Local bishops now bear witness to the faith as foreign missionaries once did.