A renowned Shan leader-cum-politician Khun Tun Oo passed away at his 79
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Khit/Myo Gyi (NP News)- April 30
Former chairman of Shan National League for Democracy Khun Tun Oo who continuously made efforts to practice the federalism has died today (April 30) afternoon at his home located in 9 mile, Yangon, according to general secretary of the SNLD Sai Leik.
The General Secretary of the SNLD Sai Leik remarked that Khun Tun Oo has been trying to build a federal union since the SNLD was formed. He did not believe in politically motivated lies and was a courageous leader.
“When he was arrested in 2005, he was sentenced to 93 years of imprisonment and sent to the Putao Prison. At that time, he said ‘what we are trying to build a federal union isn’t insulting anyone’. He urged the Shan people to continue their efforts until reaching our goal. He remained his steadfast commitment on federalism until his death accordingly. His demise is an irreplaceable lost for the party as he was the leader for fighting for achieving federal and democracy,” Sai Leik said.
His funeral commemoration will be held on May 2 at Yayway Cemetery at Yangon. As he is a generation of the Shan Saopha (Sawbwa), the 'cremated remains' (ashes) will be entombed at Hsibaw Royal Family Tomb located in Hsibaw Township, Shan State.
Died at 79 years old, Khun Tun Oo chaired the SNLD for more than 30 years.
He was arrested in 2005 under the regime of former Senior General Than Shwe for boycotting the National Convention which was reconvened in 2004. He was released on 13 January 2012 in a mass presidential pardon of political prisoners by the former president Thein Sein.
He was elected in 1990 Multi-parties General Election representing Pyithu Hluttaw seat for Hsibaw constituency.