Washington, Jun 03: Discounting Burma as an irresponsible member of the international community for its detention of Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of movement for democracy in the country, the US today demanded her immediate release and reopening of her party's offices. "The United States condemns placing National League for Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi in any sort of custody. The recent detention of Aung San Suu Kyi and other senior leaders of her party marks a significant step back for the military regime in Rangoon and for the people of Burma," State Department spokesman Phil Reeker said in a statement. "The closing of the offices of the National League for Democracy across the country hinders national reconciliation and a peaceful transition to democracy and is inconsistent with the will and rights of the Burmese people," he said.
"We call on the regime for the immediate release of these officials and the reopening of their offices. A government that does not allow peaceful political expression or an atmosphere in which citizens can peacefully express their views cannot be counted as a responsible member of the international community," Reeker said. The United States, in coordination with other concerned members of the international community, including members of the United Nations Security Council, is considering all measures available in our efforts to foster this transition to democracy, he said.
"We also continue to support the efforts of United Nations special envoy Tan Sri Razali Ismail to meet with all parties in Burma to encourage national reconciliation. We urge the regime to provide the conditions that will allow for a successful visit this week," he said. Bureau Report