Khaing

Besides, Khaing adds, nothing will change unless China is put under pressure.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

"The government has never been hated as much as it is now," says Nay Myo Khaing.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

One of their leaders goes by Nay Myo Khaing, which, of course, is not his real name.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

Khaing is especially disappointed by the international community.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

For the past few days Khaing has been wearing a black T-shirt and a pair of black jeans -- as a sign of mourning and in silent protest.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

Dissidents like Khaing are hesitant to pin down any plans, not knowing which activists will even be at large then -- or whether, once again, their plans will be foiled.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

Khaing seems at a loss, as the monsoon rain drums down onto the corrugated metal roof.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

Khaing says the government has seldom hunted down its opponents as mercilessly as now.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

Then Khaing stands up without a sound and disappears into the throngs of Rangoon, a city of six million.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008

"Even the monks have withdrawn, after so many of them disappeared into the prisons," says Khaing.

Red paint campaign to symbolize the blood of victims of the Burmese dictatorship Stephen Retherford 2008