The former Lower House MPs who were elected in 1990 said they would not stand idle over the controversial Myitsone Dam project, adding that they would stand by the people in protest against the project resumption, said Khun Tun Oo, chairman of the 1990 Lower House Representative Group.

He made the remark during a meeting between his group and partner political forces to discuss the formation of a political party held in Yangon on April 5.

"If the Myisone project is to resume, our group will not stay idle. We will stand by the people and lead opposition to the project," said Khun Tun Oo, former Lower House MP for Hispaw Township in 1990.

He is also chairman of Shan Nationalities League for Democracy.

David Hla Myint, secretary of the group, said: "Building this Mytisone Dam is most likely to damage the whole Ayeyawady River. We totally oppose this."

Some political and religious leaders from Kachin State reportedly said that the Chinese ambassador to Myanmar and some government delegations came to put pressure with intent to resume the Myitsone project which was by the previous government in 2011.

Meanwhile, political activists and civil service organizations are forming nationwide networks campaigning for the termination of the project.

In meeting with local residents in Pyay, Bagon Region, on March 14 this year, State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi said responsibility would be taken regarding the project and the reason would be revealed if the decision was made. However, no clarification has come so far.