The Philippines has criticized the military government of Myanmar in its ruling to extend, once again, the house arrest of pro-democracy leader Aung Suu Kyi.
“Concrete steps are needed to enhance the credibility of Myanmar’s Roadmap to Democracy, that includes the release of political prisoners,” a statement from the Office of the Press Secretary said.
It added that the Philippine government is reiterating its call for the release of Suu Kyi and all other political prisoners.
“Meaningful dialogue with Aung San Suu Kyi and all political groups, and the full and free participation of all stakeholders in the political process will help bring about Myanmar’s full national reconciliation and return to democracy,” the statement added.
Suu Kyi was first arrested in 1989 after addressing a pro-democracy rally in Yangon.
The junta arrested her on the basis of martial law that also allows for detention without charge or trial for three years.
She was freed in 1995 but placed under arrest again five years later.
Following release in 2002, she was again arrested in 2003 and placed in secret detention for more than three months. House arrest resumed after government critics discovered her secret detention.
Amid widespread calls this year to allow foreign aid workers to reach Myanmar following the cyclone devastation there, the juna extended Suu Kyi’s house arrest for another year.
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