They said Union Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen Ko Ko had submitted a draft proposal for “Peaceful gathering and demonstrations” to the second session of Lower House meeting on Monday, 26 September.

The draft says, in accordance with 2008 constitution, people shall be allowed to gather freely and demonstrate. But they need to inform the police station a week before the gathering, including an estimation of where and how many of people will be in the protest.  The authorities will inform back within 48 hours whether or not the planned gathering is approved.

In the 2008 constitution, “Every citizen shall be at liberty in exercising of the following rights, if not opposing to the laws, enacted for Union security, prevalence of law and order, community peace and tranquility or public order and morality: to express and publish freely their convictions and opinions; to assemble peacefully without arms and holding procession.”

In addition, people shall not gather at places like markets, hospitals, schools, bus stations and harbors, said a MP from Lower House.

“It means there is nowhere for citizens to gather except in the sea, if there are such a lot of restrictions,” joked the member. “Many MPs are getting tired of having little opportunity to express ourselves. However we will try our best to improve the draft for the sake of our people.”

Apart from the draft of “Peaceful gathering and demonstrations”, a draft bill for private schools is also being discussed. “It says private schools will be allowed to set up for students from 5th grade to 10th grade,” an MP explained.

“In applying for setting up a school, a list of planned subjects to be taught must also be included. Which may mean ethnic languages will also be allowed to teach.”

MPs receive a monthly honorarium of K 300,000 ($ 361) plus K 10,000 ($12.04) per diem throughout the parliamentary session which is expected to conclude in the first week of October.