Anger greets Suu Kyi conviction

World leaders have reacted with anger and disappointment at the conviction of Burmese pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi for violating security laws.

The UN called for her immediate release after she was sentenced to a further 18 months of house arrest - where she has spent 14 of the past 20 years.

The US, the European Union, Britain and France were among those who condemned the verdict.

Ms Suu Kyi was on trial for allowing a US national, John Yettaw, into her lakeside home after he swam there uninvited. John Yettaw was jailed for seven years, including four years of hard labour.

Critics of Burma's military regime say the verdict is designed to prevent Ms Suu Kyi from taking part in elections scheduled for 2010.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon has said he "strongly deplores" the verdict, and has called for Ms Suu Kyi's immediate and unconditional release.

My personal view? I am appalled by the result of this sham trial. Aung San Suu Kyi must be released now! Democracy needs to be restored to Burma, and totally free and fair elections allowed to take place, without threat of intimidation or violence.

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