Burma's government and the country's main political opposition group have both criticized a declaration of independence by an ethnic minority group.
In a government statement published in the state media, the minister of home affairs Major General Maung Oo said the actions by Burma's Shan ethnic group endanger the country's law enforcement. The statement also declared the group an "unlawful association."
Burma's National League for Democracy also rejected the independence bid, saying the Shan leaders' action could make the situation inside Burma "more complicated" and could further empower the country's ruling military regime.
On Sunday, the eldest son of Burma's first president declared a Shan State independent from Burma's military junta. His Royal Highness Prince Surkhanpha said Shan State is a war zone and foreigners should avoid the region.
