That's not how politics works - sometimes things move in a rather imperceptible way. There are no fireworks, and then comes a time when change comes unexpectedly. Sometimes change comes with a lot of fireworks, but not always.

The people of my country want the two freedoms that spell security: freedom from want and freedom from fear.

There are those who argue that the concept of human rights is not applicable to all cultures. We in the National League for Democracy believe that human rights are of universal relevance. But even those who do not believe in human rights must certainly agree that the rule of law is most important. Without the rule of law there can be no peace.

Burmese political culture lacks an understanding of negotiated compromise. We have to build up that kind of culture.

We achieve everything by our efforts alone. Our fate is not decided by an almighty God. We decide our own fate by our actions. You have to gain mystery over yourself. It is not a matter of sitting back and accepting.

I think I was the healthiest prisoner of conscience in the world.

In general people feel more relaxed about participating in politics. They aren't frightened as they used to be.