Myanmar Opposition calls for Suu Kyi's release

The National League for Democracy has called for the release of its pro-democracy leader Suu Kyi and other political prisoners.

Myanamr's opposition National League for Democracy (NLD) on Monday called for the release of its pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners at its annual gathering.

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Some 400 people, including Western diplomatic officials and UN representatives, attended the meeting commemorating what the NLD considers the start of the "resistance of the people against the fascists".

The holiday marks the day in 1945 when General Aung San - the leader of the then-Burma's independence movement and Aung San Suu Kyi's father - called on resistance fighters to expel Japanese occupying forces.

In a statement, the NLD requested the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other party leaders who have "been detained for their constant efforts promoting democracy and human rights".

Aung San Suu Kyi, whose house arrest was extended in December, has spent most of the last 16 years in detention.

The NLD also urged Myanmar's ruling generals to "create an appropriate political climate and initiate substantive political dialogue" with the opposition.

The junta crushed pro-democracy demonstrations in 1988 and two years later rejected the result of national elections won by the NLD.

Despite increasing international pressure for democratic reform and sanctions by the United States and European Union, Myanmar appears unwilling to loosen its grip on power.

The NLD's offices remain shuttered and party members under constant surveillance.