Hkun Htun Oo (UNA) arrested in Burma

Arrest of Pro-Democracy Leaders in Burma

The United States is deeply concerned that the Burmese junta has arrested several pro-democracy leaders, including Hkun Htun Oo, the chairman of the Shan National League for Democracy. We also are concerned that authorities have prohibited the United Nationalities Alliance (UNA), Burma’s leading coalition of pro-democracy ethnic political parties, from commemorating Union Day on February 12. These actions further demonstrate the junta’s rejection of genuine national reconciliation as well as its disregard for the well being of the Burmese people and the views of the international community.

We reiterate our call on the junta to release Aung San Suu Kyi and all political prisoners immediately and unconditionally, to allow the National League for Democracy to reopen its offices nationwide, and to engage the democratic opposition in a meaningful dialogue leading to genuine national reconciliation and the establishment of democracy. 2005/183

Released on February 11, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC February 11, 2005