Rohingya News Agency - Elevenmyanmar

President Thein Sein promised a systematic, timely and peaceful transfer of power to the newly elected government during a meeting with the political parties held on November 15 in Yangon.

Leaders from eighty political parties and the ethnics groups that signed the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement attended the event.

The president said: “The general election was an important step in the country’s transformation, which began five years ago. I acknowledge that the election commission, political parties, elected MPs and voters all participated in the election peacefully.”

He continued: “The current government continues the transition smoothly in line with the existing laws, rules and regulations. I will initiate the second term of the parliament in accordance with the rules. The new government will be given power systematically and in due time. I would like to say again not to worry about it, as it will be carried out stably and smoothly.”

The president said the current government has done its best over the last five years, especially in its efforts to create a new political culture of negotiation between political forces.

He said: “International investment has been attracted by the new investment-related laws, and by the Central Bank’s independent exchange rate policy. There is the prospect of more investments coming to Myanmar. For the peace process, the NCA was signed by eight ethnic armed groups. The remaining groups will also participate in the peace process. The NCA guarantees the establishment of a federal union through political dialogue to solve the armed conflicts.”

The NCA is a good foundation for peace, the president said.

He said: “I believe the next government can handle the peace process very well since the political dialogue will take place in line with the NCA.”

The president also said the election is essential for democracy and that there will be elections once every five years.

He said: “Political parties will win or lose in the election. However, since this is a democratic system, the wining party must work for the public’s interest, and the losing parties must provide a system of checks and balances. The non-elected parties must be active outside the parliament. Only then can the democratic system function well. Therefore, I urge all to ensure a system of checks and balances, for the benefit of all parties.”

He continued: “Not only are the government and the parliament responsible for the success of the transition, but also all political forces. Therefore, the role of the political parties is important.”