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Burma Junta flayed over rights reco



Burma Junta flayed over rights record

The Asian Age (New Delhi), October20th 1997


Bangkok, Oct. 19: Burma's ruling junta has shown "cynical contempt" over
calls to improve its human rights record and still holds at least 1,200
political prisoners, Amnesty International said in a report on Monday.

The ruling State Law and Order Restoration Council continues to arrest
political opponents and ethnic minorities, forcing tens of thousands to
escape to neighbouring countries, the report said.

The London-based human rights watchdog urged the international community
to step up pressure on the junta, and for the UN General Assembly to
adopt a resolution calling for the immediate release all "prisoners of
conscience."

"It has never been more important to sustain and increase pressure,
especially as Burma is brought into its membership of Asean," Amnesty
said. The report, tiled "Myanmar: A Challenge for the International
Community," said there had been "no improvements" in human rights since
Rangoon's controversial entry into the association. (AFP)