Release
Date: May 18, 2009
For Release: Immediate
Statement from Michael Ignatieff on the trial and detention of Aung San Suu Kyi
The unjustified trial and continued detention of Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater vigilance by all governments to protect and promote democratic freedoms and expression around the globe.
Aung San Suu Kyi has spent thirteen of the last twenty years under military-imposed house arrest while maintaining a stance of peaceful, non-violent political involvement. Her party won Burma’s last legitimate election in 1990.
A nobel peace laureate and honourary Canadian citizen, Aung San Suu Kyi has stood for the rights and freedoms of the Burmese people, bringing global awareness to the injustices and instability within Burma under the rule of its military junta.
On behalf of the Liberal Party and our Parliamentary caucus, we condemn the recent charges brought against Aung San Suu Kyi and the ensuing trial as part of the illegitimate junta's ongoing efforts to extend Ms. Suu Kyi's unjust detention. We call for her immediate release and the release of all political prisoners in Burma. We further call on the Government of Canada to work with the international community to strengthen its sanction of the Burmese junta and press for her release.
Today, we commend Aung San Suu Kyi's courageous pursuit of political freedom for the Burmese people and stand with our international partners in supporting the cause of democracy in Burma.
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Contact:
Press Office
Office of the Leader of the Opposition
613-996-6740
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