Sai Htay Aung pleads Shanni pride push
U Sai Htay Aung, chairman of the Tai-Leng Nationalities Development Party (T.N.D.P), outlined his party’s platform in a nationwide radio and television address on October 31. He emphasized the party’s commitment to building a democratic federal union where all ethnic groups coexist with mutual respect for each other’s cultures, religions and traditions.
The party’s four-point election plan focuses on peace, official recognition of the Shanni ethnic name, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and constitutional reform. U Sai Htay Aung called for political dialogue over armed conflict, citing postwar progress in countries like Vietnam and Cambodia. He urged Shanni communities to support T.N.D.P candidates to secure parliamentary representation needed to formalize their ethnic identity. On agriculture, he highlighted challenges like rising input costs and conflict-related disruptions, pledging support for technical aid, market access and credit. Regarding the constitution, he noted preliminary agreement among political groups on 43 proposed changes between 2021 and 2025 and stressed the need to update or repeal outdated provisions. He urged voters to participate in the December 28, 2025, general election to advance peaceful, democratic change.
