U.N.'s Ban backs Suu Kyi's call for reform

UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- The United Nations supports calls by freed opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi for reconciliation in Myanmar, the U.N. secretary-general said.

The military junta in Myanmar freed Suu Kyi, a pro-democracy leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, from house arrest Saturday. She led her National League for Democracy Party to a victory in 1990 elections but military leaders refused to give up power.

Suu Kyi said following her release that she was ready to talk to the junta leader Senior Gen. Than Shwe as part of an effort to push the military toward allowing a more open and democratic society.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said after he spoke by telephone with the opposition leader that he supported her efforts for reform in Myanmar.

"The secretary-general told (her) that he was encouraged by the spirit of reconciliation emanating from her statements and appeals for dialogue and compromise following her release," Ban's spokesman said in a statement issued from his office.

Myanmar had its first general election in nearly 20 years in early November, saying it would open the door to civilian participation. The international community said the election was a sham.

Suu Kyi was barred from taking part in the political process when authorities ruled that those with criminal records couldn't play a role in politics. The decision effectively dissolved her NLDP.