RANGOON — Aung San Suu Kyi called for the ongoing support of the Burmese people on the morning of vice presidential nominations within the Parliament.
In a statement signed by the National League for Democracy (NLD) chairwoman and released on Thursday, the Burmese democracy leader said the selection of the country’s president and vice president will begin on Thursday and is an important step for those who supported the NLD in the general election of 2015.
“I urge all of you to give your support based on rational thoughts, to reach our goal peacefully before we fully implement your hopes,” she said.
Her request came at a time when unconfirmed reports indicate that her negotiations with the military to pave way for her presidency have failed. Since November’s election, Suu Kyi met three times with Burma Army chief Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing, but details of the meetings were unknown.
Thursday’s statement was viewed by some as consolation offered to the majority of Burmese voters who desperately want to see her as President; Suu Kyi has been constitutionally barred from the position because her two sons are foreign citizens.
Lower House, Upper House and military representatives will submit their nominations for vice presidential posts and the candidates will be voted on in the Union Parliament. The nominee with the most votes will become the president, and the other two individuals will serve as vice presidents.
A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that Burma would have three vice presidents following selection of the country’s president.
