The dichotomy in the ways of the Burmese military junta continues. Even as it woos voters for political parties backed by it, the regime uses forced labour. The Regional Operation Commander in Kalemyo, Sagaing division forced people to clean roadside bushes on the No. 2 Indo-Myanmar border trade road on 30 September, ostensibly for security purposes on a day when it was raining heavily.

“We worked in the rain as soldiers and the commander stood and watched. They wanted to complete the cleaning immediately for the security of military personnel during the forthcoming elections,” said Pu Bika, a trader.

Bushes had to be cleaned between Taingen village and Tiddim town, 25 miles from Kalemyo. To make matters worse people are unable to do their own work, because of heavy rain.

“We cannot go to our fields to cultivate, yet are afraid to refuse the military’s orders. Some have fallen ill,” said a local in Taingen village.

“Now the army authorities have ordered cleaning of the Indo-Myanmar border trade road No. 2 from Tiddim town to Tiau, border village,” said a trader, on condition of anonymity.

A source said that after the Regional Operation Commander visited the Indo- Myanmar border areas, the Burmese Army’s patrolling has been stepped up in the border areas. Some traders believe that trade No. 2 road will be closed before the elections in Burma.