The Chin National Party (CNP), set up by Chin political leaders, has registered with the Election Commission on 7 April for the forthcoming 2010 general elections in Burma.

This follows a discussion by Chin political leaders in Yangon city and representatives of Chin people in all townships in Chin state. They have agreed to field candidates from one umbrella political party.

A number of Chin political leaders went to Naypitaw, capital of Burma on 29 March and registered their political party, the Chin National Party (CNP).

Khonumthung News tried to contact the leaders but there is no official word as to whom all will be nominated as candidates from among Chin politicians.

Till date, 13 parties have applied to contest in the election. Of these 11 political parties have already registered with the Election Commission to participate in the elections later this year.

Meanwhile, the New Light of Myanmar newspaper said that the Election Commission has announced the formation of state and division sub-commissions for the election. Sub-commission offices will be opened in the respective state and division General Administration Department offices.

However, the date of the election is yet to be announced, although the junta has announced its electoral laws on 8 March. -