Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has added his voice to that of governments, human rights activists and performers across the world who are pressuring Burma to release detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
Mr. Mahathir told reporters today-Friday that Burma's ruling generals have nothing to lose by releasing Aung San Suu Kyi, who celebrates her 60th birthday Sunday under house arrest at her Rangoon home. The Nobel Laureate has been in and out of detention for much of the past 16 years -- this time since May of 2003.
The former Malaysian leader also suggested that the Burmese generals be given immunity from prosecution if they step down and allow the country to move toward democracy.
There were calls Thursday from the United Nations, Britain, the United States and a number of other countries for Aung San Suu Kyi's release.