Prayers for peace in Burma
Churches across Britain were today taking part in a day of prayer for peace and democracy in Burma.
It is part of an international series of events timed to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the award of the Nobel Peace Prize to Aung San Suu Kyi, Burma’s pro-democracy leader.
Michael Taylor, chairman of the Burma Campaign UK, said: ‘‘Aung San Suu Kyi has asked for international support for the struggle for peace and democracy in Burma.
‘‘This national day of prayer is a response to that call, as well as an expression of the deep concern for justice we believe we share with God.’’
Burma has been ruled by a military dictatorship since 1962 and there are currently more than 1,500 political prisoners languishing in jail.
The National League for Democracy, led by Suu Kyi, won more than 80 per cent of the vote when elections were held in 1990 but the regime refused to accept the results and has clung to power ever since.
Suu Kyi, who has spent much of the last decade under house arrest, has come to symbolise Burma’s struggle for freedom.
Churches holding the services will have collections to raise funds for the pro-democracy campaign.
Members of the congregation will be also encouraged to send postcards and wear yellow flowers to highlight their support.
Yesterday Foreign Secretary Jack Straw paid tribute to Suu Kyi and called on the Burmese authorities to fulfil recent announcements that they are considering a return to democracy.
