Democratic Party (Myanmar) leader U Thu Wai is used to fighting uneven fights. In the 2010 election he unexpectedly lost in Yangon’s Mingalar Taung Nyunt, when pre-votes in favor of then Minister of Labour U Aung Kyi suddenly appeared after midnight. In Sunday’s election he had to battle it out with a National League for Democracy opponent.
You ran in Sanchaung Township, Yangon, for a seat in the Pyithu Hluttaw. Did you win?
“The result have not yet been announced, but we already know who will win. On election night I watched the counting of the votes. I am sure the National League for Democracy has won in Sanchaung. For me it is disappointing I lost, but the people are really tired of this government and they think the NLD is the only party who can change it. So that’s alright.”
Will you retire from politics?
“Definitely not. In the beginning we formed our party, to work for our party members and the people. Whether there was an election or not. We followed our program, and worked towards our destination. This will not change. The NLD will dominate the political landscape. At present this is a correct statement to make. But nothing is permanent in life and politics.”
