Publication

This bulletin forecasts the 2008 constitutional referendum's impact on Burmese politics. It argues that although the referendum represents a rare opportunity for Burmese citizens to participate in the country's political process, the referendum is likely to be hampered by procedural mishaps, opacity about the constitution's language and potential clashes between government-backed 'yes' voters and 'no' voters supported by the National League for Democracy. If approved, the author argues that the referendum will in effect solidify the military junta's control over the Burmese population indefinitely.