Published November 28, 2005

The United States deplores the extension of Aung San Suu Kyi’s detention.

Since the brutal attack on her convoy in May 2003, after which she was imprisoned and subsequently transferred to house arrest, the regime has failed to charge Aung San Suu Kyi with any criminal offense, instead making the incredible assertion that she is being held for her own protection.

The extension of Aung San Suu Kyi’s detention is yet another step in the wrong direction by Burma’s military rulers. In order to move the country toward democracy and national reconciliation, the Burmese regime should release Aung San Suu Kyi and all political prisoners, and initiate a meaningful dialogue with the democratic opposition and ethnic minority political groups.