Myanmar junta stalls on Ban request to see Suu Kyi

By Louis Charbonneau

NAYPYIDAW, Myanmar (Reuters) - U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon had a rare meeting with Myanmar junta supremo Than Shwe on Friday but left with no clear answer to his request to see detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Suu Kyi, who has spearheaded the campaign for democracy for two decades in the former Burma, is currently on trial for breaching a security law, which critics say is an attempt by the generals to keep her out of multi-party elections to be held next year.

"He told me that she is on trial. I told him that I wanted to meet her in person," Ban told reporters after a meeting with the junta leader lasting nearly two hours in the country's remote new capital, Naypyidaw.

"I am awaiting ... their consideration and reply," Ban said.

Ban had made no secret of his intention to ask for permission to meet Suu Kyi during his two-day trip, which critics say has been orchestrated by the junta to try to legitimise the Nobel laureate's trial.

Ban called for the release all political prisoners ahead of the election and meaningful dialogue between the junta and opposition parties.

"This election should be credible, fair and inclusive, and a legitimate one," Ban said. "I was assured that Myanmar's authorities will make sure that this election will be held in a fair and free and transparent manner."

Earlier, Than Shwe, 76, dressed in khaki uniform adorned with medals, was commended by Ban for his contributions to peace, prosperity and democracy.