Burma Campaign UK offers its condolences to the family and friends of Reverend Dr. Simon, who passed away yesterday.
Reverend Simon was one of those rare people whose goodness and compassion shone through. He was, quite simply, a good man.
When Burma was a closed country, Burma Campaign UK brought MPs, journalists and NGOs from all over the world to the Thai Burma border, where they could meet refugees and political exiles and learn about the situation in Burma.
Reverend Simon always welcomed these visitors, taking the time to explain the situation in Burma, and inspiring them to work for democracy and human rights in Burma when they returned to their home country. A Christian Reverend and ethnic Karen, Reverend Simon spoke up for religious freedom and for the Karen people, but also talked about the situation for all the people of Burma, regardless of religion or ethnicity.
He will be remembered not just as a spiritual leader, but also as a strong leader who stood up for his people and for a peaceful Burma.
His passing is a sad loss not only for family and friends, but for all the people of Burma.