“We are seriously concerned that the exclusion of the NLD from the political process will make it even more difficult to improve the situation,” Japan’s foreign ministry said in a statement.
“Japan strongly urges Myanmar to immediately release NLD officials, including Suu Kyi, and to show a path toward a peaceful resolution of the issue in a manner that includes all parties concerned.”
A spokesperson for Myanmar’s military could not immediately be reached for comment. Its leader Min Aung Hlaing on Monday urged international critics to get behind his efforts to restore democracy.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was seriously concerned about a further narrowing of political space in Myanmar due to tough election registration requirements.
It said all stakeholders should be allowed to participate in the political process and warned their exclusion could lead to further violence and instability.
“We will continue to closely monitor the regime’s actions, and call for the restoration of democracy including credible elections,” it said in a statement.