UCA News
Contribute

Suu Kyi warns of ‘unacceptable’ polls

Accuses officials of irregularities, condemns violence against NLD members
Suu Kyi warns of ‘unacceptable’ polls
The press conference in Yangon
Published: March 30, 2012 08:54 AM GMT
Updated: March 30, 2012 09:19 AM GMT

Pro-democracy leader, Aung San Suu Kyi said today that by-elections due to take place on Sunday are unlikely to be free and fair, citing widespread voting irregularities and violence against her party’s candidates and members. “I do not think that we can say the by-election is going to be free and fair. Some of the irregularities were committed by those in official positions,” she told a news conference at her home in Yangon. “While we recognize that even in well-established democracies there are irregularities and misdemeanors when elections take place, what has been happening in this country [is] really beyond what is acceptable for a democratic election,” the 66 year old Nobel laureate said. “I hope that enough will happen next week after the result of the election is announced to energize our people; they have their part to play in shaping the path of the country,” the 66 year old Nobel laureate added. The National League for Democracy (NLD) leader also condemned what she said were attempts to intimidate NLD candidates through acts of violence. She said there have been attempts to injure candidates and cited two cases in which stones or other objects were thrown at party members. Suu Kyi is contesting one of the 45 seats up for grabs in the April polls which are seen as a key test of Myanmar’s reforms. The government hopes they will lead to the lifting of Western sanctions. Three elections in Kachin State have been postponed after officials cited security concerns.  

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia