By Chris Hogg

BBC News, Bangkok



Than Shwe's critics say the democracy roadmap is a ruse

The decision, which is part of what the generals call their "roadmap" to democracy, comes after 14 years of talks in a constitutional convention.

The discussions were boycotted by the opposition, who are also unrepresented on the new committee.

Critics say the roadmap to democracy is just a ruse to allow the generals to hold on to power.

The government has appointed 54 officials to sit on the committee to draft the constitution.

Its chairman is the chief justice and many members appear to be retired doctors or professors.

Forum for debate?

Fourteen years ago, the generals set up a constitutional convention, which was boycotted by the opposition.

It finished its work and published a set of proposals last month.

In one sense then this new committee is the logical next step.

No doubt Burma's leaders hope it will be seen by the international community as a positive development.

However, it does not look like any members of the opposition have been appointed to the committee.

That will disappoint pro-democracy activists, although they are unlikely to be surprised.

Analysts say the important question is whether the committee will rubber-stamp the ideas of the government-dominated constitutional convention, or offer a genuine forum to debate how best to establish democracy in Burma.

The United Nations has said there is a need for such a debate and it should be inclusive - the opposition should be able to take part.