A senior Burmese physician's show of solidarity

The following letter by Prof. U Thein Htut, FRCP, FRACP to the Australian, a news paper here. This was published yesterday, the 27th.

Prof. U Thein Htut is a very senior gastroloenterolgist and is the son of the late Prof. U Min Sein FRCP, Professor of Medicine, and the late Prof. Daw Yin May, FRCS, FRCOG, FRCP, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, in the Medical College, University of Rangoon. Both saya's parents were two of the earliest pioneers of medicine in Burma. Prof. Daw Yin May was the first person ever to be elected as Fellow of the three different colleges of UK. She was also the person who diagnosed Amoebic vaginitis, which was originally called May's Disease.

Dear Mr Editor,

The monks in Burma (the Sangha) are called "phongyis" in the Burmese language, meaning "highly revered". Phongyis are treated with the greatest respect by Burmese of all religions. They have forsaken all worldly possessions. They play an essential role in the religious and indeed the social life in Burma. In Theravada Buddhism practiced in Burma, they are one of the Triple Gem: the Buddha, the Buddha's Teachings and the Sangha.

For the phongyis to demonstrate in their tens of thousands is unprecedented. They are unarmed, their aim is one of peace. They reflect the concern for the ongoing suffering of the Burmese people.

Burma has been under a continuing chain of military dictatorships since 1962. Many, many thousands have left the country. The military rulers are essentially thugs. They accept no criticism. These thugs wield absolute power. They are of the same race, culture and religion as the majority of the Burmese. However, because they wear the khaki uniform, they are a class apart. They have benefits in salaries, education and all amenities.

These thugs have continued in power with recognition and support from neighbouring countries, including members of ASEAN. These countries have exploited Burma's vast natural resources. Some may be afraid of Burma's large standing army.

We do not yet know the outcome of the Burmese Sanghas protest marches now supported by the public. It reflects the ongoing suffering of the people.

Yours sincerely,

Dr Thein Htut.