Asean calls for dialogue while UN chief condemns Myanmar coup
Asean on Monday called for the return to dialogue and reconciliation in Myanmar after the military staged a coup on Monday morning.
According to China's Xinhua news agency, Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint and other senior officials were detained by the military early on Monday. Myanmar military TV declared on Monday a state of emergency in the country for one year after the government leaders were detained.
The Asean chairman’s statement read:
“Asean member states have been closely following the current developments in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.
“We recall the purposes and the principles enshrined in the Asean Charter, including the adherence to the principles of democracy, the rule of law and good governance, respect for and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
“We reiterate that political stability in Asean member states is essential to achieving a peaceful, stable and prosperous Asean Community.
“We encourage the pursuance of dialogue, reconciliation and the return to normalcy in accordance with the will and interests of the people of Myanmar.”
Brunei Darussalam takes over the Asean chairmanship in 2021 from Vietnam.
Meanwhile, Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesman for the United Nations Secretary-General, issued a statement strongly condemning the situation in Myanmar.
“The Secretary-General strongly condemns the detention of State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint and other political leaders on the eve of the opening session of Myanmar’s new Parliament. He expresses his grave concern regarding the declaration of the transfer of all legislative, executive and judicial powers to the military. These developments represent a serious blow to democratic reforms in Myanmar.
“The November 8, 2020 general elections provide a strong mandate to the National League for Democracy, reflecting the clear will of the people of Myanmar to continue on the hard-won path of democratic reform. The Secretary-General urges the military leadership to respect the will of the people of Myanmar and adhere to democratic norms, with any differences to be resolved through peaceful dialogue. All leaders must act in the greater interest of Myanmar’s democratic reform, engaging in meaningful dialogue, refraining from violence and fully respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms.
“The Secretary-General reaffirms the unwavering support of the United Nations to the people of Myanmar in their pursuit of democracy, peace, human rights and the rule of law.”