US doubtful over credible Burma elections

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Burma's junta leader, Than Shwe, promised the elections as part of his so-called 'roadmap to democracy'. [AFP]

Last Updated: Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:44:00 +1100

The United States has voiced doubt over whether upcoming elections in Burma will be credible.

The State Department says the Obama administration is concerned by the junta's unilateral decision to begin releasing the election laws without dialogue with the democratic opposition or ethnic minority leaders.

Burma's state media reports the junta will appoint the body overseeing the country's next elections.

It's printed the two-page text of the first of the new edicts, the "Union Election Commission Law," signed by junta head Senior General Than Shwe.

It says the junta will appoint the commission, which will have at least five members.

The text says all members must be over 50, will be vetted by the government and the Commission will have the final and conclusive say on all electoral matters.