ABSDF Urges SPDC To Lift Restrictio

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Media Release
Date: July 29, 1998


ABSDF Urges Burmese Military to Lift Restrictions on Aung San Suu
Kyi


The All Burma Students' Democratic Front (ABSDF) calls on the
Burmese military junta to immediately lift restrictions placed on
Burma's pro-democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi as the standoff
between her and military authorities enters its sixth day.

"The current standoff is a clear violation of Daw Aung San Suu
Kyi's rights as a citizen of Burma," said ABSDF Foreign Affairs
Secretary Aung Naing Oo. 

"The military must immediately allow Daw Aung San Suu Kyi
complete freedom of movement and also lift other restrictions
placed on Members of Parliament and opposition individuals and
groups," Aung Naing Oo said.

The ABSDF is concerned about the welfare of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi
and her colleagues who are stuck in her car 26 kilometres
northwest of Rangoon. The military authorities have refused to
allow her to continue her journey to Bassein and the ABSDF holds
the authorities entirely responsible for any deterioration in Daw
Aung San Suu Kyi's health.

This is Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's third attempt this month to leave
Rangoon in order to meet her supporters in Bassein in the
Irrawaddy delta. The two previous attempts were met with
identical blockades and resulted in a similar standoff with
Burmese security officials.

"Democratisation in Burma is inevitable, and the best solution to
the country's problems is to begin a dialogue between the
pro-democracy opposition, led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi,
representatives of the ethnic nationalities and the military
leaders. Unfortunately, the military has continually refused to
enter into such a dialogue," Aung Naing Oo said. 

"It is only through dialogue that we can avoid confrontation and
end the heightening political strife in Burma."  

All Burma Students' Democratic Front 

For more information please call 01-654 4984, 01-253 9082.