Never mind Valentine, remember

Padoh Mahn Sha Lah Phan

The Phan Foundation, set up by the four children of Padoh Mahn Sha, is asking people from Burma and supporters around the world to hold memorial services for Padoh Mahn Sha on or around 14th February, the first anniversary of his assassination.

On Feb. 14, 2008 Padoh Mahn Sha was assassinated by two gunmen at his home in Mae Sot, Thailand. The gunmen were acting on behalf of the Burmese regime. No-one has been arrested for the murder.

Padoh Mahn Sha was General Secretary of the Karen National Union, and dedicated his life to the struggle for freedom, democracy and human rights in Burma. He was a respected and unifying figure who refused to surrender to the regime, which is why Burma’s generals were so afraid of him.

The Phan Foundation was set up in memory of Padoh Mahn Sha and his wife, Nant Kyin Shwe, by their children. It aims to fight poverty and promote education for Karen people, and preserve Karen culture. The Phan Foundation is asking for collections for the Foundation to be made at the memorial services.

“We ask that people remember our father on the first anniversary of his assassination”, said Zoya Phan, daughter of Padoh Mahn Sha. “We must keep his memory and what he stood for alive, and pay tribute to a brave leader. Funds raised will also help carry on his work promoting education and fighting poverty.”

For more information contact phanfoundation@googlemail.com.