Bkk Post-Junta tells Suu Kyi to go

[tinkyi@xxxxxxx]

Subject: Bkk Post-Junta tells Suu Kyi to go to England

March 21, 1999
BURMA
Junta tells Suu Kyi to go to England
Claims she's too much trouble for Rangoon

The Burmese military junta yesterday launched a blistering attack against
Aung San Suu Kyi, accusing her of fomenting disunity in the country and
suggesting that she leave Burma and take care of her ailing British husband.

The harsh criticism came during a rally in Rangoon attended by several
thousand people, including students, academics and former leading members of
the National League for Democracy.

The three-hour gathering was televised for audiences outside Rangoon.

One speaker told the crowd that Suu Kyi, the NLD leader, was losing ground
following the defection of several leading members of her party to the
government. Even though she continued to get support from the international
community, the Burmese people were losing confidence and trust in her.

The speaker suggested that Suu Kyi leave Rangoon and reunite with her ailing
husband, Michael Aris, in Britain - instead of him joining her in Burma.

Burmese observers in Mae Sot who monitored the television broadcast said the
rhetoric was intended to undermine Suu Kyi's reputation.

The attack came as western countries are putting pressure on Rangoon to
allow Mr Aris to visit Suu Kyi in Burma.

The NLD leader has refused to leave Burma, fearing that she would not be
allowed back.

The Burmese junta said yesterday it was "very sympathetic" to a visa request
from Mr Aris but it lacked proper medical facilities to accommodate his
visit.

It said in a statement: "The government of Myanmar remains very sympathetic
to the request by Michael Aris, the husband of Aung San Suu Kyi, for a visa
to Myanmar. Myanmar medical authorities are concerned, however, that Mr Aris
might not be able to receive proper medical care in Myanmar, and that he
might put an undue burden on the country's limited medical facilities."