In a monthly televised address on January 2, President Thein Sein said he wanted the removal of all restrictions that forbade any Myanmar national from taking office.

Article 59 (f) of the constitution bars Myanmar citizens married to foreigners, or who have children with foreign citizenship, from becoming president.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s late husband was a Briton and her two sons are British nationals.

President Thein Sein said constitutional changes needed to be made with consideration of democratic principles, but national interests should remain the top priority.

He added that amending the military-drafted constitution could help to achieve national reconciliation.

Opinion has been divided among conservative political parties about amending Article 59(f), although the proposed amendment has been widely supported by the public.