Second US Lawmaker Speaks Out Against Burmese Military Government - 2004-12-09

A second U.S. congressman has spoken out against Burma's military government in as many days.

Mike Pence says he is appalled by recent reports that Burma's military government is engaging in a campaign targeting the country's ethnic groups.

The Indiana Republican also expressed disappointment in the continued detention of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Mr. Pence called on Burma to immediately release Aung San Suu Kyi, and urged the Bush administration to take whatever measures are necessary to exert more pressure on the military government.

Earlier this week, Pennsylvania Republican congressman Joseph Pitts warned that the current situation in Burma is becoming comparable to what is going on in troubled Horn of Africa countries.