UN: Myanmar elections lacked transparency, participation

Nov 8, 2010, 16:41 GMT

New York - The United Nations on Monday criticized Myanmar for holding general elections in conditions that were 'insufficiently inclusive, participatory and transparent.'

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said in response to the weekend polls in the Southeast Asian nation, its first in 20 years, that the military junta now has the responsibility to turn the results into a beginning for the country and its people.

'Consistent with their commitments, the authorities must demonstrate that the ballot is part of a credible transition towards democratic government, national reconciliation and respect for human rights,' he said.

Ban called for the release of all remaining political prisoners, including opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, 'without further delay,' so they can take part in the political life of Myanmar, formerly Burma.

Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy boycotted the elections.

'The international community will look to the Myanmar authorities to provide greater assurances that the current process marks a genuine departure from the status quo,' he said, adding that the UN stands ready to work with Yangon to 'achieve such a transformation.'

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