EU to deploy Myanmar election observers

Brussels: The EU said Tuesday it will for the first time deploy observers in Myanmar`s upcoming elections when the opposition led by Aung San Suu Kyi is expected to make significant gains against the military-dominated government.

"The mission confirms the European Union`s continued commitment to the democratic transition of Myanmar," EU foreign affairs head Federica Mogherini said in a statement.

"Elections held in a peaceful and inclusive environment will help to consolidate irreversible reforms in the country," Mogherini said.

The EU monitoring mission comprises nine election analysts plus 30 long-term and 62 short-term observers, the statement said.

EU diplomats and a separate mission from the European Parliament will also observe the vote, it added.

Suu Kyi`s National League for Democracy won elections in 1990 but the military rejected the results and repeatedly put her under house arrest until 2010.

She won a seat in parliament in 2012 as the military eased their hold on the country but Suu Kyi cannot seek the presidency under rules which bar the position to a person who married and had children with a foreigner.

The NLD has vowed to change the charter to reduce the army`s role and overturn the presidency restrictions.

Suu Kyi told supporters last week they should not be afraid when they cast their votes in the November 8 election.

"It`s not 1990 anymore, so people don`t need to be afraid. They can be brave to vote for the National League for Democracy," she said.