WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama has urged the government and opposition leaders in Myanmar to accept the results of this week’s elections and ensure a smooth transfer of power to those elected, the White House said on Thursday.

President Obama telephoned Myanmar’s President Thein Sein and opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Wednesday night and conveyed this message.

Myanmar has been dominated by the military for half a century through direct junta rule and since 2011 by a quasi-civilian government run by its allies.

But Ms Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy captured more than 85 per cent of seats declared so far from Sunday’s election and is looking forward to form the next government.

With the president, Mr Obama “discussed the importance for all parties to respect the official results once announced and to work together with a spirit of unity to form an inclusive, representative government that reflects the will of the people,” the White House said.

In his call to Ms Suu Kyi, President Obama commended her for “her tireless efforts and sacrifice over so many years” to promote a more inclusive, peaceful, and democratic Burma.

The US leader noted that the election and formation of a new government could be an important step forward in the country’s democratic transition and the effort to forge a more peaceful and prosperous future, the White House said.

Published in Dawn, November 13th, 2015

On a mobile phone? Get the Dawn Mobile App: Apple Store | Google Play

Opinion

Editorial

Afghan outreach
Updated 11 Jan, 2025

Afghan outreach

Islamabad should stress stronger counterterrorism measures, yet also engage the Taliban high command in Kandahar as well as politicians in Kabul.
Fragile recovery
11 Jan, 2025

Fragile recovery

STATE Bank Governor Jameel Ahmed appears to be quite optimistic over recent economic gains. That is not unusual;...
Destination Europe
11 Jan, 2025

Destination Europe

THE country’s aviation authorities can rest a little easy. After a four-year banishment from European skies,...
E-governance
Updated 10 Jan, 2025

E-governance

Wishing for a viable e-governance system seems like a pipe dream when stable internet connectivity is not guaranteed.
Khuzdar rampage
Updated 10 Jan, 2025

Khuzdar rampage

Authorities must explain how terrorists were able to commandeer the area for eight hours.
Beyond wheelchairs
10 Jan, 2025

Beyond wheelchairs

THE KP government’s Rs370m assistance programme for persons with disabilities is a positive step, not only in ...