Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi is a patriot who has vowed to work to develop Myanmar, but now it is time for her and the government to show people what they can really do, a top Church official says.

According to Archbishop Charles Bo of Yangon, the government’s olive branch to her and the National League for Democracy has not only given them the chance to re-enter the political fray, it has also put itself to the test.

She has decided to stand in upcoming by-elections with a genuine heart and with a willingness to work for the good of the country according to the prelate. “But we need to wait and see how freely she can do so.”

The fact that she is willing to work with all the different religious leaders is a positive start, he added.

One of the first tests will be bringing about a peace deal with various ethnic minorities fighting for more autonomy.

Father Christopher Raj, director of the Karuna Lashio Social Service, said despite progress and change over the last few months, the conflicts with ethnic minorities will pose a major problem for the government and Suu Kyi.

“This is a very critical time for our country. She [Suu Kyi] herself realizes this and has asked the Church to pray for a good outcome regarding her role as a peace mediator between the government and ethnic groups, as well as for genuine democracy,” he said.

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