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UN chief tells Myanmar junta to get democracy 'back on track'
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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks at a press conference during the ASEAN Summit in Phnom Penh on Nov. 12, 2022. (AFP/Tang Chhin Sothy)
U
N chief Antonio Guterres on Saturday urged the Myanmar junta to immediately return to democracy, saying it was the only way to stop the "unending nightmare" engulfing the country.
Myanmar has spiraled into bloody conflict since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in February last year, with thousands killed.
The escalating crisis dominated the ASEAN summit, which has led so far fruitless diplomatic efforts to end the bloodshed.
"The situation in Myanmar is an unending nightmare for the people and a threat to peace and security across the region," Guterres told reporters.
"I urge the authorities of Myanmar to listen to their people, release political prisoners and get the democratic transition back on track immediately. That is the only way to stability and peace."
After meeting ASEAN leaders, Guterres said it was vital that a peace plan agreed with the junta – but so far not enforced – came into effect.
"Indiscriminate attacks on civilians are horrendous and heartbreaking," he said.
