Daw Aung San Suu Kyi concluded her campaign tour of conflict-ridden Kachin State yesterday in the middle of what she called a “different than expected” ceasefire agreement.

The National League for Democracy leader’s five-day trip through the state coincided with the Kachin Independence Organisation refusing to sign the nationwide ceasefire agreement, along with at least nine other groups. As Daw Aung San Suu Kyi wove through Myitkyina, Waingmaw, Mogaung, Hopin, Mohnyin, Bhamo and Momauk, voters provided a common thread: What would an NLD peace deal look like?

Responding to the questions, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said lasting peace would have to be negotiated through three stages: the signing of a truly nationwide ceasefire agreement, holding a modern iteration of the historic Pang-long conference and creating a democratic union with a revised constitution.

Many have speculated that the coming November poll will be won or lost along ethnic voter lines, with ethnic parties expected to make gains in the election. After spurning constituency-splitting deals with ethnic minority parties, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi chartered rallies through autonomous zones and border territory, attempting to woo ethnic voters whose interest in the elections and the largest opposition party was not guaranteed.

She urged voters to cast ballots in favour of the NLD not because they favoured the local candidate, but because they want an NLD government. She diplomatically waded around making promises on the contentious Chinese-owned Myitsone dam project, and clarified that the NLD supports keeping religion out of politics.

“Our people don’t understand about democracy because you all have been forced to stay with your eyes and ears closed for so many years. So, let me tell you not to believe the words of these politicians who are trying to take advantage of you and influence you [through religion],” she said.

She added that if the people choose to elect an NLD government, then the government will be used to listen to and help the people.

Her tour of Kachin State skipped over planned rallies in Hpakant, Kamaing, Tanai and Mansi due to poor transportation and security concerns. This was her fourth visit to the state, which she toured in 1989, 2002 and earlier this year.

 Translation by Thiri Min Htun