The SDU, on behalf of the Shan people, is saddened by the deceased of the KNU President, Saw Ba Thin Sein on 22 May, 2008.
 
The SDU would like to reiterate that the joint KNU and SDU awareness-building initiative in European Union, for the period from December 2001 to October 2005, would not have taken place, without  the encouragement and blessing of Saw Ba Thin Sein.
 
As a result of this undertaking, the political position of the non-Burman ethnic nationalities’ international posture have been immensely reinforced, leading to better understanding of the need for tripartite dialogue and political configuration in Burma arena.
 
The SDU would like recall the meetings with the President in Oslo, Paris and Mae Sot, where the President had steadfastly assured of the unwavering goal of a genuine federalism, equality and democracy for all the peoples of Burma.
 
It is the SDU’s feverent wish that all democratic and ethnic forces will continue to strive for Saw Ba Thin Sein’s aspiration, until victory is achieved.
 
May Saw Ba Thin Sein’s soul rest in peace.
 
Sai Wansai
General Secretary
Shan Democratic Union