Burmese Junta Presses Military for Support

YANGON (AFP) – Myanmar's junta deputy leader General Maung Aye has urged military officers to take responsibility for the success of elections planned for next year, a state newspaper said.

In a speech at a graduation ceremony for new officers, the general told recruits that it was their job to ensure the country's transition to a mature democracy, the New Light of Myanmar reported.

"I would say you are responsible for the democratic transition, in cooperation with the people, to ensure the successful completion of 2010 elections," Maung Aye told the gathering in the military town of Bahtoo in Shan State. More>>

• PHOTO: Myanmar's General Maung Aye and wife. Maung Aye has urged military officers to take responsibility for the success of elections planned for next year (AFP/File/Ho).