Constitution of Burma
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The Constitution of Burma has changed several times since the country became independent from the United Kingdom.

Burma's third constitution was drafted in 2008.

1948 Constitution

Burma had its first constitution immediately after independence in 1948; this charter established a bicameral legislature.¹

1974 Constitution

The 1974 constitution was its second one which created a unicameral legislature.¹ Ne Win became the president at this time.

2008 Constitutional referendum

Further information: Burmese constitutional referendum, 2008

On 10 May 2008² a referendum was held to outline the political framework of the country. According to Chief Justice Aung Toe, who is chairman of the drafting commission,

In drafting the constitution, the commission adhered strictly to the six objectives, including giving the Tatmadaw (the military) the leading political role in the future state.³

The government did not allow Cyclone Nargis to delay the referendum which took place as scheduled (except in the delta areas affected by the cyclone.⁴⁵

Reaction in Burma

The National League for Democracy had not been allowed to contribute to the creation of the constitution.⁶ The group that is led by Aung San Suu Kyi urged citizens to reject⁷ the constitution which it labeled as a "sham."

References

External links

• 1974 Constitution of Burma
• Myanmar Constitution Guidelines Ensure Military Power, The New York Times

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