Myanmar reform party protests oath

Myanmar's parliament opens with 43 faces missing.

After sweeping by-elections, the National League for Democracy party refused to take its seats in protest against the oath of office.

Reform leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other party MPs want to swear to "respect the constitution" rather than safeguard it, as they have pledged to amend the army-drafted charter.

But the ruling military-backed party has refused to change the oath.

Lawmakers from other parties urged compromise.

(SOUNDBITE) (Burmese) NEWLY ELECTED UPPER HOUSE MEMBER FROM SHAN NATIONALITY DEVELOPMENT PARTY, SAING SAN MIN SAYING:

"When I swore in today, there were no NLD (National League for Democracy) members attending the opening. That makes me sad. So far they have been expected (to attend parliament). "

The current constitution grants the military broad powers, including occupying a quarter of parliamentary seats.

A National League for Democracy spokesman estimated the conflict would be resolved within 10 days.

"the NLD is trying to take part in parliament and will go to parliament", says Nyan Win.

The European Union agreed on Monday to suspend most of its sanctions against Myanmar for a year despite the dispute .

Lindsey Parietti, Reuters