Suu Kyi calls for tolerance on Rakhine conflict

Published on Wednesday, 07 November 2012 19:19

Aung San Suu Kyi seen at the meeting with parliamentary representatives (Photo - Nyein Zaw Linn/EMG)

Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi has urged for tolerance and emphasised the rule of law in addressing ethnic violence in Rakhine State.

In an interview with a BBC reporter in Nay Pyi Taw last week, Suu Kyi said it is not appropriate to promote the cause of one side without looking at the root of the conflict.

She was referring to riots between Rakhine locals and Bengalis in Rakhine State, west Myanmar.

Fighting began in June while the most recent violence occurred on October 21. The government reported that 84 people died and 29 others were injured while nearly 3,000 houses were burned down in the latest outbreak.

She said the rule of law should be a top priority and only after security is in place can other problems be addressed. She added that a proper solution could not be reached if people were locked in deadly fights and arson attacks.

Responding to criticisms over her lack of stand on the Rakhine conflict, Suu Kyi said it won’t help the situation. She said she has been used to critical remarks in the past 20 years.

Suu Kyi blamed previous governments for policies that led to human rights violations and discrimination against Rakhine Buddhists.