Canada condemns dissolution of political parties by Myanmar regime

March 30, 2023- Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement:

“Canada condemns the Myanmar regime’s dissolution of 40 political parties, including the National League for Democracy and Shan Nationalities League for Democracy. These clear attempts to undermine Myanmar’s democratic institutions and to silence opposition voices will only serve to deepen the ongoing crisis in Myanmar and delay the return to a fully democratic and inclusive Myanmar.

“The regimes overruled the democratic wishes of the people of Myanmar when they seized power in a coup on February 1, 2021.

“Canada continues to call for a peaceful return to Myanmar’s democratic path in line with the aspirations of the people of Myanmar.  Any political process without inclusive dialogue, with opposition members detained, killed or silenced risks worsening conflict.

“We call on the regime to release those arbitrarily detained, including political leaders, and end the violence and targeting of civilians, grant full and unhindered humanitarian access, and respect its obligations under international law. We also call on the international community to support efforts to hold those responsible for human rights violations and abuses to account; to cease the sale and transfer of arms and equipment, which facilitate atrocities; and to meet the urgent humanitarian needs of Myanmar’s people, including its most vulnerable communities.

“Canada supports the efforts of those working peacefully for an inclusive, peaceful and multiparty democratic Myanmar where the rights of all are protected.”