Pelosi Statement on the Election of Aung San Suu Kyi to Burma's Parliament
Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement in response to the election of pro-democracy leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi to Burma's Parliament. Parliamentary by-elections were held in Burma this week to fill some of the vacant seats in the parliament.
"The election of Aung San Suu Kyi to Burma's Parliament is a step forward on the path towards a brighter future for the Burmese people. While there are credible reports that these parliamentary elections were neither free nor fair, they are notable due to the participation of the popular, pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy party.
“The transformation of Aung San Suu Kyi’s status from a political prisoner to a member of parliament can be a historic turning point for the country. The Obama Administration is to be commended for its efforts to promote real reform in the country.
“In the coming weeks and months, it is essential that the government of Burma build upon the momentum for reform by releasing the remaining political prisoners, ending the restrictions on media and the Internet, and ending the violence in ethnic minority areas and pursuing reconciliation with those communities.
“Aung San Suu Kyi has inspired the world in the fight for the freedom of the Burmese people. I am proud that the U.S. Congress will soon award her the Congressional Gold Medal for ‘her courageous and unwavering commitment to peace, nonviolence, human rights, and democracy in Burma.’
“Let there be no doubt that we stand together with Aung San Suu Kyi and the freedom-seeking people of Burma in their struggle for a better future.”
source : Nancy Pelosi Website
