People around the world rejoiced today, as beloved 1991 Noble Peace Laureate and fighter for democracy in Burma, Aung San Suu Kyi, was released, after 15 years of house arrest.Suu Kyi, the daughter of Burma's leading independence figure, General Aung San, was imprisoned for her campaign for democracy in Burma and her leadership of the opposition party, the National League for Democracy. The party was never permitted to assume power, even after winning an election landslide in 1990.
A different time , a different country, different circumstances - and yet Suu Kyi's call for democracy and human rights is similar to that of fellow Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Nelson Mandela.
As the world celebrates Suu Kyi's release, there is still concern about the remaining 2,200 political prisoners in Burma, and there is a watchful eye on the military government during this month's elections. According to this Humans Rights Watch article, there are reports of serious voting irregularities, such as questionable "advance voting ballots".
With this mixed backdrop of celebration and caution, leaders around the world expressed their happiness about Suu Kyi's release:
President Barack Obama: “She is a hero of mine and a source of inspiration for all who work to advance basic human rights in Burma and around the world. … The United States looks forward to the day when all of Burma’s people are free from fear and persecution.”
Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Chair of The Elders: "Aung San Suu Kyi’s release offers hope to the people of Burma, who face uncertain times following the 7 November elections. She is a global symbol of moral courage and we wish her strength and health as she makes her own transition from such a long period under house arrest."
No comments:
Post a Comment