Myanmar Bans Gatherings, Imposes Curfew

Joining the monks Tuesday were members of detained Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's opposition National League for Democracy party or NLD, as well as university students. They marched more than a mile to the Sule Pagoda under the scorching sun.

As the protests escalated, ordinary people in Mandalay began joining the monks or following on foot, motorcycles, bicycles and trishaws. But many still appeared afraid to show open support.

"I support the monks. However, if I join them, the government will arrest me," said a man selling belts at a Mandalay market. He declined to give his name, fearing reprisals.

On Monday, the head of Myanmar's official Buddhist organization ordered monks to stick to learning and propagating their faith, saying young monks were being "compelled by a group of destructive elements within and without to break the law," the state-run New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported.

These agitators included NLD members, remnants of the defunct Burmese Communist Party and some foreign radio stations, Religious Affairs Minister Brig. Gen. Thura Myint Maung was quoted as saying in the same report.

The current protests began Aug. 19 after the government sharply raised fuel prices in one of Asia's poorest countries. But they are based in deep-rooted dissatisfaction with the repressive military rule that has gripped the country since 1962.

The protests over economic conditions were faltering when the monks took the lead last week, assuming a role they played in previous battles against British colonialism and military dictators.

At first the monks simply chanted and prayed. But as the public joined, demonstrators demanded dialogue between the government and opposition parties, freedom for political prisoners, and adequate food, shelter and clothing. Some monks could be seen trying to keep the crowds from shouting overtly political slogans.

The fleeting appearance Saturday of Suu Kyi at the gate of the Yangon residence where she is under house arrest squarely identified the protests with her NLD's longtime peaceful struggle. She has been detained for 12 of the past 18 years.

British Foreign Secretary David Miliband said Tuesday that Suu Kyi should lead the country.

"I for one thought it was brilliant to see Aung San Suu Kyi alive and well outside her house last week," he said. "I think it will be a hundred times better when she takes her rightful place as the elected leader of a free and democratic Burma."