Suu Kyi covered up truth: junta

Myanmars junta defended its prosecution of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi,accusing her on Sunday of covering up the truth when she let an uninvited American intruder stay in her house. The comments marked the first time a top official from the reclusive regime has appeared in a public forum to justify its actions,which has drawn international anger.

Myanmars Deputy Defence Minister Maj. Gen. Aye Myint told a security conference here that Suu Kyi was charged because she allowed a foreigner to stay in her house instead of informing the police. The police noted that Suu Kyi committed a cover-up of the truth by not reporting an illegal immigrant,he said.

Thus there was no option but to proceed with legal proceedings, he said. He said other countries should refrain from interfering in internal affairs that will affect peace and security of the region. Otherwise,it may possibly affect friendly relations.

If convicted,Suu Kyi faces up to five years in jail.