West slaps sanctions on Myanmar

The United States and its allies imposed further sanctions on Myanmar yesterday, marking the two-year anniversary of the coup with curbs on energy officials and members of the junta, among others.

Washington imposed sanctions on the Union Election Commission, mining enterprises and energy officials, among others, according to a Treasury Department statement.

It marks the first time the United States has targeted Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) officials under the current Myanmar sanctions program, a Treasury spokesperson said.

Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom also announced sanctions.

The military has pledged to hold an election in August this year. On Friday, the junta announced tough requirements for parties to contest the election, including a huge increase in their membership, a move that could sideline the military's opponents and cement its grip on power.

The NLD described this year's election as "phoney" and said it would not acknowledge it.