If you give in to intimidation, you'll go on being intimidated

We do need great change in Burma. We are trying to build a new society, a society where basic human rights are respected, and where our people enjoy all the benefits of democratic institutions.

To view the opposition as dangerous is to misunderstand the basic concepts of democracy. To oppress the opposition is to assault the very foundation of democracy.

The provision of basic material needs is not sufficient to make minority groups and indigenous peoples feel they are truly part of the greater national entity. For that they have to be confident that they too have an active role to play in shaping the destiny of the state that demands their allegiance.

In politics, you also have to be cautiously optimistic.

As long as there is no law in Burma, any individual here can be arrested at any time.

We will surely get to our destination if we join hands.