The generals are loosening their grip after international sanctions and criticism over their regime 's human rights record . The by - elections in Myanmar are seen as a test of recent reforms . The government has invited the U.S. and EU to send observers , official says . Other countries in the region have also been invited to send monitors . Pro - democracy leader Aung San Suu , and her supporters are participating in the elections .
The by - elections in Myanmar are seen as a test of recent reforms . The government has invited the U.S. and EU to send observers , official says . Other countries in the region have also been invited to send monitors . Pro - democracy leader Aung San Suu , and her supporters are participating in the elections .