Yangon, June 08: A special UN envoy failed to meet or secure the release of detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, despite a barrage of international criticism of her detention and threats of tighter economic sanctions against Myanmar's ruling junta by the United States. But envoy Razali Ismail, on the second day of his five-day mission, said he was still "making his case" to the generals who secreted Suu Kyi to an unknown location following a bloody clash in northern Myanmar nine days ago.

Razali met for more than an hour with Gen Khin Nyunt, Myanmar's intelligence chief and third-ranking leader, as well as Foreign Ministry officials and diplomats. Khin Nyunt had earlier lashed out at the Nobel Peace Prize winner and her National League for Democracy.

"I am still in the process of making my case," Razali told reporters when asked after the meeting whether he would be allowed to see Suu Kyi.
A coordinator for the visit, Leon de Riedmatten, said the request to meet with the opposition leader was still being considered. "At the moment, he will stay. He will not cut short his visit," he said.
Bureau Report