An international coalition of activist groups is criticizing a recent decision by Burma's military rulers to double the price of gasoline while the government is reported to be earning record profits from fuel exports.
In a statement today, the Shwe Gas Movement voiced opposition to the government's energy policies, arguing that they should do more to look after the people's needs.
The statement said the government's decision earlier this month to double fuel prices came as military leaders were making more than two billion dollars in profits from natural gas exports.
The Shwe Gas Movement also voiced its opposition to the government's plans to develop gas fields in western Burma and sell the fuel to China.
The Shwe Gas Movement is made of groups from western Burma, India and Bangladesh that are fighting for more public involvement in decisions over Burma's natural resources.
The group argues that all natural gas extraction in Burma should be stopped until the people of Burma can democratically elect their leaders and have a say in determining the use of their natural resources.
