Myanmar polls hold promise for SE Asia

The world's attention is focused on Myanmar, especially because of its general election on Nov 8. In fact, the Southeast Asian country has been in the headlines ever since it started democratic reforms in 2010, particularly after opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi was released from house arrest and restarted her political activities.

The general election will have a great impact not only on the political situation within Myanmar, but also across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The problem is that even though the National League for Democracy led by Suu Kyi is widely expected to win the elections, Myanmar's constitution bars her (a citizen whose family comprises foreigners) from becoming president.