Burmese govt. in exile plans new strategy

YANGON, Myanmar, May 31 (UPI) -- Myanmar's government in exile says tensions are rising in that country over the military junta's trial of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

The National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma says the trial of Suu Kyi's has led to a change in its strategy for democracy in Myanmar, with details to be announced in June, the Voice of America reported.

The new strategy will urge those supporting democracy in Myanmar to join the effort, as Suu Kyi's trial has undermined the credibility of the military junta's plans to hold elections next year, group spokesman Thaung Htun was quoted as saying.

"Aung San Suu Kyi is the key partner for dialogue, the key person for reconciliation," he said.

Countries in the region should work with the U.N. Secretary-General to demand an authentic, inclusive democratic transition in Burma, the former name of Myanmar, he said.

Thaung Htun said public tensions are rising in Myanmar's capital as the trial reaches a conclusion, even as the junta beefs up security. A verdict may come as early as Friday, the VOA said, adding Suu Kyi, a 1991 Nobel Peace laureate, faces up to five years in jail if found guilty.

She has spent 13 of the past 19 years under house arrest. Her supporters say the trial is an excuse to extend her detention and prevent her from taking part in next year's elections.

The military government, defending the trial, claims no one is above law and warns other countries to stay out of the country's internal affairs.