Laos Human Rights Conference
Room 122 Canon House Office Building.
US. Capitol, Washington, DC USA
October 26, 2009
Honorable Senators and Congressmen,
Dr. Richard Saisomorn
Distinguished guests
Ladies and Gentleman:
On behalf of the Lao Students Movement for Democracy of October 26, 1999, we would like to convey our deepest appreciation to all of you to make this (anniversary of the “26 October 1999 Movement) meeting possible. We sincerely regret not being able to be here today, so only our message to represent us.
As you may know on October 26, 1999 the Lao Students Movement for Democracy along with hundreds of supporters were peacefully rallied in front of the Lao Presidential Palace and then marched to the Veterans ' monument afterward. The purpose and main objective of the Student Movement for Democracy are... Please see our "White Paper" attached.
Unfortunately, during the peaceful demonstration, the Lao Communist Government used their special forces to crush the demonstrators and captured five of eleven key leaders such as Mr. Thongpaseuth Keuakoun, Khamphouvieng Sisa-at, Seng-Aroun Phengphanh, Keochay and Bouavanh Chanmanivong. The Lao communist government arrested, tortured, and incarcerated them to this day without trials, which violates the one-year statutory limitation. Until today the fate of these gentlemen are unknown since they were arrested. We are very concerned for their health, welfare and personal safety.
We are pleased to urge and ask for your assistance in obtaining freedom for these men as well as prisoners. We are pleased to urge all of you to join us to campaign to fight for peace, justice, freedom and democracy in Laos.
It is universally known that the current communist Lao Government, taking over the country, has been ignoring the basic human rights as guaranteed by the constitution and the Charter of the United Nations (1951 Geneva Convention). In fact, since 1975, the current Lao government is one of the worst Government in regards to basic human rights. There were a number of serious problems that have never been brought to the attention of the International Communities. Citizens do not have the right to express opinions of their government. The government restricted freedom of speech, press, assembly and association. The Lao PDR promptly denies, and frequently does not inform family or relatives of the arrest(s) and where they are held.
We strongly believe the human rights are basic rights and freedom that all people are entitled to regard nationality, s-e-x, national or ethnic origin, race, religion, language. And human rights include civil and political rights, such as the right to life, liberty and of expression.
The Lao Students Movement for Democracy strongly requested the assistance of the U.S government, the United Nations, Human Rights Institution as well as the International Communities. Our request to promote peace, democracy, and basic human rights are:
• To release unconditionally all political and religious prisoners.
• To respect basic human rights as guaranteed by the Lao Constitution and the Charter of the United Nations (1951 Geneva Convention).
• To fight all forms of corruption.
• To restore true democracy.
• To organize free and fair elections.
• To guarantee the basic rights, the freedom of speech, freedom of press, freedom of religion.
• To promote national reconciliation.
• To have full Independence for Laos.
• To restore the multiple political party in Laos.
Thank you very much.
Nouamkham Khamphylavong, President
Oudong Saysana, Executive Director |
