Myanmar Political Crisis Overview

Historical Background

• Former Name: Myanmar was known as Burma.
• Colonial History: Was a British colony until 1948.
• Military Rule: From 1962, ruled by a military junta.
  • Repression: Military crushed opposition; notable events include:
    • 1988 Pro-Democracy Movement: At least 3,000 killed.
    • 2007 Saffron Revolution: Led by monks, resulting in dozens of deaths.

Rise of Aung San Suu Kyi

• Prominence: Became a leading voice for peaceful resistance.
  • House Arrest: Spent years under house arrest.
• International Pressure: Myanmar was a pariah state.
• 2010 Release: Military began loosening power; Suu Kyi was released.

Democratic Elections

• 2015 Election Victory: Suu Kyi’s party wins in a significant democratic election.
  • Rohingya Crisis: International criticism for not defending Myanmar's Rohingya Muslim minority.
  • Domestic Support: Continued popularity among the Buddhist majority.
• 2020 Re-election: Her party won by a landslide, nearly eliminating pro-military opposition.

Military Allegations & Coup

• Voter Fraud Claims: Military alleged fraud without proof.
• 2021 Coup:
  • Date: February 1st.
  • Actions:
    • Arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi and other civilian leaders.
    • MPs detained and communication channels blocked.
  • Military Announcement: Declared a year-long state of emergency, promising new elections.

Public Response & Uncertainty

• Public Protests: Initially slow, then widespread, demanding restoration of democracy.
• Current Situation: Uncertain outcomes; historical violence remembered by all.