GENEVA - THE UN Human Rights Council on Friday passed a resolution expressing concern that election laws adopted by Myanmar failed to include the necessary elements to guarantee an inclusive political process.
The resolution, which was slammed by Myanmar for being 'politically motivated' and based on 'unfounded allegations' was adopted without a vote.
The resolution 'expresses concern that the newly adopted electoral laws do not meet the expectations of the international community regarding what is needed for an inclusive political process.' It also 'calls upon the government of Myanmar to ensure a free, transparent and fair electoral process which allows for the participation therein of all voters, all political parties, and all other relevant stakeholders in a manner of their choosing.'
To this end, the resolution strongly urged the ruling junta to release 'without delay and without conditions' the 2,100 political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and to allow them to participate in the upcoming elections. The resolution came on the heels of a call made Thursday by the so-called Group of Friends of Myanmar for Myanmar's military regime to free all political prisoners and to ensure that upcoming polls are inclusive and transparent.
The group comprises Australia, Britain, China, the European Union, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Norway, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, the United States and Vietnam. On Wednesday, the UN Security Council also held closed-door talks on Myanmar.
Myanmar accused the EU of tabling a 'politically motivated draft resolution which totally disregards and disrespects the principles we adhere to.' Myanmar ambassador Wunna Maung Lwin added that there was 'clear intention to interfere in the internal affairs of Myanmar' and that the resolution 'does not reflect the true situation in the country.' -- AFP
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