Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Thursday (June 7) that lawyers defending political detainees in Myanmar military junta-run courts are facing harassment and are even being jailed by military authorities. HRW warned that intimidation was forcing many lawyers to stop taking cases.

The military junta toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi more than two years ago. The country has been in turmoil ever since. The military junta has arrested tens of thousands in a crackdown on dissent within the country.

Rights groups allege that the authorities have used courts to throttle opponents. These include Aung San Suu Kyi and Myanmar's former president win Myint. Both of them were jailed for lengthy terms by closed-door courts.

HRW said in a report that defence lawyers, who are defending political detainees, are working in "special courts" set up by the military junta. These lawyers, says the report, are facing harassment and are even being threatened by the authorities. The report is based on interviews with 19 lawyers.

"In the courtroom, I now have to worry about not getting myself detained rather than speaking the truth," one Yangon-based lawyer told the watchdog.

"Everyone at the court knows who I am... The junta can detain me at any time, and they can and will make up any reasons they want."

<h2>Lawyer given 15-year jail term</h2>

HRW mentioned the case of attorney Ywet Nu Aung. She was reportedly detained as she left a court hearing. She was representing a former chief minister and member of Aung San Suu Kyi's party, the National League for Democracy (NLD).

It was alleged that Ywet Nu Aung was helping to provide money to anti-junta militias. She was later sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labour.

Human Rights Watch said that lawyers are regularly barred from talking with clients in private before hearings. Moreover, in an overcrowded legal system, some lawyers had taken on hundreds of cases.

"Sometimes cross-examination doesn't even happen," another lawyer told HRW.

"It's near impossible to challenge what they (the prosecution) present as evidence, and we never get to have a defendant released on bail." 
 
All 19 lawyers told HRW they had experienced "intimidation and surveillance by junta authorities".&nbsp;

"Few have been willing to put themselves at risk of further surveillance and intimidation and many have stopped taking cases," HRW said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-special-envoy-for-myanmar-to-resign-says-un-chief-spokesman-598932">United Nations special envoy for Myanmar to resign, says UN chief spokesman&nbsp;</a> 
 
More than 23,000 people have been arrested by the junta since the coup in February 2021, according to a local monitoring group.&nbsp;

Last year, a junta-controlled court ordered the execution of a former NLD lawmaker along with a prominent activist over allegations of "terrorism" — Myanmar's first use of capital punishment in decades.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Thursday (June 7) that lawyers defending political detainees in Myanmar military junta-run courts are facing harassment and are even being jailed by military authorities.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Thursday (June 7) that lawyers defending political detainees in Myanmar military junta-run courts are facing harassment and are even being jailed by military authorities. HRW warned that intimidation was forcing many lawyers to stop taking cases. The military junta toppled the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi more than two years ago. The country has been in turmoil ever since. The military junta has arrested tens of thousands in a crackdown on dissent within the country. Rights groups allege that the authorities have used courts to throttle opponents. These include Aung San Suu Kyi and Myanmar's former president win Myint. Both of them were jailed for lengthy terms by closed-door courts. HRW said in a report that defence lawyers, who are defending political detainees, are working in "special courts" set up by the military junta. These lawyers, says the report, are facing harassment and are even being threatened by the authorities. The report is based on interviews with 19 lawyers. "In the courtroom, I now have to worry about not getting myself detained rather than speaking the truth," one Yangon-based lawyer told the watchdog. "Everyone at the court knows who I am... The junta can detain me at any time, and they can and will make up any reasons they want." Lawyer given 15-year jail term HRW mentioned the case of attorney Ywet Nu Aung. She was reportedly detained as she left a court hearing. She was representing a former chief minister and member of Aung San Suu Kyi's party, the National League for Democracy (NLD). It was alleged that Ywet Nu Aung was helping to provide money to anti-junta militias. She was later sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labour. Human Rights Watch said that lawyers are regularly barred from talking with clients in private before hearings. Moreover, in an overcrowded legal system, some lawyers had taken on hundreds of cases. "Sometimes cross-examination doesn't even happen," another lawyer told HRW. "It's near impossible to challenge what they (the prosecution) present as evidence, and we never get to have a defendant released on bail." All 19 lawyers told HRW they had experienced "intimidation and surveillance by junta authorities". "Few have been willing to put themselves at risk of further surveillance and intimidation and many have stopped taking cases," HRW said. Also Read | United Nations special envoy for Myanmar to resign, says UN chief spokesman More than 23,000 people have been arrested by the junta since the coup in February 2021, according to a local monitoring group. Last year, a junta-controlled court ordered the execution of a former NLD lawmaker along with a prominent activist over allegations of "terrorism" — Myanmar's first use of capital punishment in decades. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Myanmar junta intimidating lawyers who represent opponents: Report

The United Nations Security Council condemned Myanmar’s recent execution of four political detainees and demanded an end to all forms of violence and full respect for the law and human rights. The statement received unanimous support from 15 council members and underlined that Myanmar had hanged the men after ASEAN and others in the 10-nation bloc requested for the judgments to be overturned. Additionally, the council members “reiterated their full support for Myanmar’s democratic transition and their strong commitment to the sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity, and unity of Myanmar,” AP reported.

A former NLP politician, a democratic nationalist, and two other men were accused of killing a woman they allegedly thought was a military informant. This week, ASEAN condemned the murders and said that it jeopardised its attempts to facilitate communication between the military leadership and detractors. All four were put on trial, found guilty, and given sentences by a military court, with no possibility of appeal. This was the first legal execution in Myanmar in nearly 50 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/executed-myanmar-prisoners-deserved-many-death-sentences-claims-junta-spokesman-500927">Executed Myanmar prisoners deserved 'many death sentences', claims junta spokesman</a>

ASEAN has been trying to bring peace to Myanmar. Its five-point plan to restore peace and stability in the country includes an immediate halt to violence, a conversation between all parties, and the appointment of an ASEAN special envoy to travel to Myanmar to speak with all the parties involved.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asean-terms-myanmar-junta-executions-highly-reprehensible-says-saddened-by-killings-500752">ASEAN terms Myanmar junta executions 'highly reprehensible', says 'saddened' by killings</a>

As per some UN experts, Myanmar&nbsp;has descended into a civil war, as despite reaching a consensus in April 2021, accepted by its military government, little has been done to put it into practise. The UN’s special envoy, Noeleen Heyzer, said that the world organisation considers the execution to be a “blatant violation” of a person’s right to life, liberty, and security, AP reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

<o:p></o:p>

The United Nations Security Council condemned Myanmar’s recent execution of four political detainees and demanded an end to all forms of violence and full respect for the law and human rights.

The United Nations Security Council condemned Myanmar’s recent execution of four political detainees and demanded an end to all forms of violence and full respect for the law and human rights. The statement received unanimous support from 15 council members and underlined that Myanmar had hanged the men after ASEAN and others in the 10-nation bloc requested for the judgments to be overturned. Additionally, the council members “reiterated their full support for Myanmar’s democratic transition and their strong commitment to the sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity, and unity of Myanmar,” AP reported. A former NLP politician, a democratic nationalist, and two other men were accused of killing a woman they allegedly thought was a military informant. This week, ASEAN condemned the murders and said that it jeopardised its attempts to facilitate communication between the military leadership and detractors. All four were put on trial, found guilty, and given sentences by a military court, with no possibility of appeal. This was the first legal execution in Myanmar in nearly 50 years. Also read | Executed Myanmar prisoners deserved 'many death sentences', claims junta spokesman ASEAN has been trying to bring peace to Myanmar. Its five-point plan to restore peace and stability in the country includes an immediate halt to violence, a conversation between all parties, and the appointment of an ASEAN special envoy to travel to Myanmar to speak with all the parties involved. Also read | ASEAN terms Myanmar junta executions 'highly reprehensible', says 'saddened' by killings As per some UN experts, Myanmar has descended into a civil war, as despite reaching a consensus in April 2021, accepted by its military government, little has been done to put it into practise. The UN’s special envoy, Noeleen Heyzer, said that the world organisation considers the execution to be a “blatant violation” of a person’s right to life, liberty, and security, AP reported. (With inputs from agencies)

UNSC condemns Myanmar’s execution of four detainees, demands end to all forms of violence

A former lawmaker from Aung San Suu Kyi’s ousted political party was sentenced to death for terror-related offences, Myanmar's junta said in a statement on Friday.

Phyo Zeyar Thaw, a member of the National League for Democracy who was arrested in November, has been "sentenced to the death penalty today under anti-terrorism act", the junta said.

Prominent democracy activist Kyaw Min Yu – also known as “Jimmy” —received the same sentence from the military tribunal, the junta statement said.

Phyo Zeyar Thaw - whose real name is Maung Kyaw - was arrested at an apartment in the commercial hub Yangon following a "tip-off and cooperation from dutiful citizens", the junta's information team said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aung-san-suu-kyis-jail-term-reduced-by-two-years-reports-434658">Aung San Suu Kyi's jail term reduced by two years: Reports</a>

He had been accused of orchestrating several attacks on regime forces, including the brazen shooting on a commuter train in Yangon in August that killed five policemen.

Thaw was elected to Parliament from Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party in the 2015 elections that ushered in a transition to civilian rule, although short-lived.

Since taking power, the junta has sentenced dozens of anti-coup activists to death as part of its crackdown on dissent, but Myanmar has not carried out an execution for decades, reports AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-leader-suu-kyi-testifies-before-junta-court-424249">Myanmar leader Suu Kyi testifies before junta court</a>

The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the coup sparked massive protests and a bloody military crackdown on dissent, which has killed more than 1,400 people according to a local monitoring group.

&nbsp;Suu Kyi had been in dentition since February last year when her government was forced out in an early morning coup.

On January 10, the Nobel laureate was charged in three criminal charges, sentencing her to four years in prison.

The 76-year-old was found guilty of two charges related to illegally importing and owning walkie-talkies and one of breaking coronavirus rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

A former lawmaker from Aung San Suu Kyi’s ousted political party was sentenced to death for terror-related offences, Myanmar's junta said in a statement on Friday.

A former lawmaker from Aung San Suu Kyi’s ousted political party was sentenced to death for terror-related offences, Myanmar's junta said in a statement on Friday. Phyo Zeyar Thaw, a member of the National League for Democracy who was arrested in November, has been "sentenced to the death penalty today under anti-terrorism act", the junta said. Prominent democracy activist Kyaw Min Yu – also known as “Jimmy” —received the same sentence from the military tribunal, the junta statement said. Phyo Zeyar Thaw - whose real name is Maung Kyaw - was arrested at an apartment in the commercial hub Yangon following a "tip-off and cooperation from dutiful citizens", the junta's information team said. Also read | Aung San Suu Kyi's jail term reduced by two years: Reports He had been accused of orchestrating several attacks on regime forces, including the brazen shooting on a commuter train in Yangon in August that killed five policemen. Thaw was elected to Parliament from Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party in the 2015 elections that ushered in a transition to civilian rule, although short-lived. Since taking power, the junta has sentenced dozens of anti-coup activists to death as part of its crackdown on dissent, but Myanmar has not carried out an execution for decades, reports AFP. Also read | Myanmar leader Suu Kyi testifies before junta court The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the coup sparked massive protests and a bloody military crackdown on dissent, which has killed more than 1,400 people according to a local monitoring group. Suu Kyi had been in dentition since February last year when her government was forced out in an early morning coup. On January 10, the Nobel laureate was charged in three criminal charges, sentencing her to four years in prison. The 76-year-old was found guilty of two charges related to illegally importing and owning walkie-talkies and one of breaking coronavirus rules. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-lawmaker from Suu Kyi’s ousted political party sentenced to death

Intense fighting between the military junta and rebel groups have forced hundreds of monks to flee temples in eastern Myanmar as crackdown intensifies, according to media reports.

The United Nations (UN) estimates that almost 90,000 people have fled, with local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) placing that figure far higher at 170,000.

The country has been in turmoil for the past 11 months since the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi was overthrown in a coup on February 11.

The sudden takeover by the military triggered widespread protests with crackdowns killing more than 1,400 people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/convicted-on-new-charges-suu-kyi-gets-four-year-jail-in-myanmar-says-report-443486">Convicted on new charges, Suu Kyi gets four-year jail in Myanmar, says report</a>

The coup was severely criticised by the global community while raising concern over the end of tentative political reforms since the end of decades of military rule.

Since then, several rebel groups have sprung up to oppose the regime.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aung-san-suu-kyi-convicted-again-what-now-443505">Aung San Suu Kyi convicted again, what now?</a>

According to news agency AFP, two eastern Myanmar towns —Demoso and Loikaw—which are rebel strongholds, saw the maximum exodus as the military continued&nbsp;to crackdown against rebels.

The UN has also noted that fighting has intensified in Kayah and Kayin states since December.

"More than half the population of Loikaw township has been internally displaced," the UN said, with even the holy men of the town scattering as the fighting raged.

"It was impossible for us to stay there," a Buddhist monk told AFP, adding that around 30 monasteries were fleeing - an unusual sight in a nation where they are revered and temples are considered safe havens.

Earlier this week, UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar Tom Andrews called on junta leader Min Aung Hlaing to "halt the air and ground attacks" on Loikaw, lift the blockade of those seeking to escape, and allow aid to get through.

(With inputs from agencies)

Intense fighting between the military junta and rebel groups have forced hundreds of monks to flee temples in eastern Myanmar as crackdown intensifies, according to media reports.

Intense fighting between the military junta and rebel groups have forced hundreds of monks to flee temples in eastern Myanmar as crackdown intensifies, according to media reports. The United Nations (UN) estimates that almost 90,000 people have fled, with local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) placing that figure far higher at 170,000. The country has been in turmoil for the past 11 months since the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi was overthrown in a coup on February 11. The sudden takeover by the military triggered widespread protests with crackdowns killing more than 1,400 people. Also read | Convicted on new charges, Suu Kyi gets four-year jail in Myanmar, says report The coup was severely criticised by the global community while raising concern over the end of tentative political reforms since the end of decades of military rule. Since then, several rebel groups have sprung up to oppose the regime. Also read | Aung San Suu Kyi convicted again, what now? According to news agency AFP, two eastern Myanmar towns —Demoso and Loikaw—which are rebel strongholds, saw the maximum exodus as the military continued to crackdown against rebels. The UN has also noted that fighting has intensified in Kayah and Kayin states since December. "More than half the population of Loikaw township has been internally displaced," the UN said, with even the holy men of the town scattering as the fighting raged. "It was impossible for us to stay there," a Buddhist monk told AFP, adding that around 30 monasteries were fleeing - an unusual sight in a nation where they are revered and temples are considered safe havens. Earlier this week, UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar Tom Andrews called on junta leader Min Aung Hlaing to "halt the air and ground attacks" on Loikaw, lift the blockade of those seeking to escape, and allow aid to get through. (With inputs from agencies)

Fight between military and rebels intensifies as hundreds of monks flee Myanmar: Report

Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, who is on a two-day visit to Myanmar, held meetings with the military junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, and members of Aung San Suu Kyi’s political party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), on Thursday and conveyed India’s interest in seeing “Myanmar’s return to democracy at the earliest.”

Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing had launched the coup in February and ousted the country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi to become the prime minister.

In a statement, India’s ministry of external affairs said, “During his meetings with all concerned, foreign secretary emphasised India’s interest in seeing Myanmar’s return to democracy at the earliest, release of detainees and prisoners, resolution of issues through dialogue, and complete cessation of all violence.”

The statement added that India expressed its support to the five-point consensus of the ASEAN on Myanmar and “hoped that progress would be made in a pragmatic and constructive manner”.

India had requested for a meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi but it not materialised. During the visit, the foreign secretary&nbsp;had meetings with envoys of the US, Australia, Norway, Czech Republic, Cambodia, Thailand, Japan-based out of the country.

During the meeting, India also raised “matters related to India’s security” in view of the recent Churachandpur incident and called on Myanmar’s military leadership to put an end to any form of violence and maintain peace and stability in the border areas.

“Both sides reiterated their commitment to ensure that their respective territories would not be allowed to be used for any activities inimical to the other,” the statement said.

Last month, insurgents had attacked a convoy of Assam rifles killing its Commanding Officer Colonel Viplav Tripathi, his wife and his five-year-old son, along with four personnel in northeastern Manipur state, which borders Myanmar.

The People’s Liberation Army and the Manipur Naga People’s Front claimed responsibility for the incident.

Notably, the release pointed out that “any developments” in Myanmar “have a direct impact on India’s bordering regions. Peace and stability in Myanmar remain of utmost importance to India, specifically to its North Eastern Region.”

Recently, Myanmar had handed over five insurgents to India, the second time in two years that such a development has taken place.&nbsp;

On the connectivity front, projects like Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project and the Trilateral Highway were also discussed with New Delhi retreating its “commitment for expeditious implementation of ongoing connectivity initiatives”.

India has been developing projects like the Rakhine State Development Programme and Border Area Development Programme for Rohingya refugees, which the MEA statement has categorically called “people of Myanmar”.

As part of the development programme, India has handed over pre-fabricated houses to displaced returnees.

During the visit, Shringla also handed over 1 million doses of “Made in India” vaccines to the Myanmar Red Cross Society and a grant of 10,000 tons of rice and wheat.

Notably, Myanmar was the first country to get Indian made vaccines when New Delhi started its vaccine export program in January this year. The first consignment of vaccines was sent to the country on January 22 this year. So far, India has sent 4.7 million doses of vaccines to the ASEAN country.

Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, who is on a two-day visit to Myanmar, held meetings with the military junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, and members of Aung San Suu Kyi’s political party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), on Thursday and conveyed India’s interest in seeing “Myanmar’s return to democracy at the earliest.

Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, who is on a two-day visit to Myanmar, held meetings with the military junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, and members of Aung San Suu Kyi’s political party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), on Thursday and conveyed India’s interest in seeing “Myanmar’s return to democracy at the earliest.” Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing had launched the coup in February and ousted the country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi to become the prime minister. In a statement, India’s ministry of external affairs said, “During his meetings with all concerned, foreign secretary emphasised India’s interest in seeing Myanmar’s return to democracy at the earliest, release of detainees and prisoners, resolution of issues through dialogue, and complete cessation of all violence.” The statement added that India expressed its support to the five-point consensus of the ASEAN on Myanmar and “hoped that progress would be made in a pragmatic and constructive manner”. India had requested for a meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi but it not materialised. During the visit, the foreign secretary had meetings with envoys of the US, Australia, Norway, Czech Republic, Cambodia, Thailand, Japan-based out of the country. During the meeting, India also raised “matters related to India’s security” in view of the recent Churachandpur incident and called on Myanmar’s military leadership to put an end to any form of violence and maintain peace and stability in the border areas. “Both sides reiterated their commitment to ensure that their respective territories would not be allowed to be used for any activities inimical to the other,” the statement said. Last month, insurgents had attacked a convoy of Assam rifles killing its Commanding Officer Colonel Viplav Tripathi, his wife and his five-year-old son, along with four personnel in northeastern Manipur state, which borders Myanmar. The People’s Liberation Army and the Manipur Naga People’s Front claimed responsibility for the incident. Notably, the release pointed out that “any developments” in Myanmar “have a direct impact on India’s bordering regions. Peace and stability in Myanmar remain of utmost importance to India, specifically to its North Eastern Region.” Recently, Myanmar had handed over five insurgents to India, the second time in two years that such a development has taken place. On the connectivity front, projects like Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project and the Trilateral Highway were also discussed with New Delhi retreating its “commitment for expeditious implementation of ongoing connectivity initiatives”. India has been developing projects like the Rakhine State Development Programme and Border Area Development Programme for Rohingya refugees, which the MEA statement has categorically called “people of Myanmar”. As part of the development programme, India has handed over pre-fabricated houses to displaced returnees. During the visit, Shringla also handed over 1 million doses of “Made in India” vaccines to the Myanmar Red Cross Society and a grant of 10,000 tons of rice and wheat. Notably, Myanmar was the first country to get Indian made vaccines when New Delhi started its vaccine export program in January this year. The first consignment of vaccines was sent to the country on January 22 this year. So far, India has sent 4.7 million doses of vaccines to the ASEAN country.

Indian foreign secretary meets military junta chief, NLD members; emphasises ‘Myanmar’s return to democracy’

When a court in Myanmar on Monday sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi to four years in custody, it closed a chapter on an era of weak and compromised democracy in a Southeast Asian nation long ruled by a military fist.

But already, a new democratic movement has emerged — younger, more progressive, more confrontational and ready to look beyond Suu Kyi for a guiding light. Hope now rests with an immensely popular shadow government that formed after Suu Kyi, Myanmar’s civilian leader, was detained by the military in a Feb. 1 coup.

The challenges are immense for this new group of leaders, known as the National Unity Government, many of whom are forced to operate from exile.

The junta is unlikely to be dislodged without unimaginable bloodshed. It and thousands of protesters, some of whom have taken up arms, are locked in a violent stalemate, prompting a top U.N. official to warn of an “alarming possibility of an escalating civil war.” No foreign nation has recognized the shadow government, although its representatives have met with senior U.S. officials, including national security adviser Jake Sullivan.

What is clear, however, is that politics in Myanmar have been reshaped. The self-proclaimed government has reach throughout society. With the help of the protest movement, it operates underground schools, clinics and hospitals. When it announced last month that it would sell “bonds” to fund its revolution, it raised $6.3 million in one day. In September, it called for a “people’s war” against the junta, prompting thousands of protesters known as the People’s Defense Forces to prepare for armed conflict.

“The landscape has completely changed,” said Khin Ohmar, a veteran democracy activist based in Virginia who runs a human rights organization in Myanmar. “The mainstream politics, the actors, the people’s political awareness — it’s all very different.”

Suu Kyi still has legions of devoted followers in Myanmar, who decry the military’s treatment of her. After her sentencing Monday to four years on charges of inciting public unrest and breaching COVID-19 protocols, she is facing a further series of verdicts that could keep her locked up for the rest of her life.

But there is a deeper recognition now that her government let down many people, including ethnic minorities and rights activists.

Suu Kyi’s vision of democracy, both by circumstance and by choice, was constricted. Most of the ministers she appointed came from the Bamar ethnic majority and nearly all of them belonged to her party, the National League of Democracy, or were people who supported the NLD. When she headed the civilian government, she named only one woman to the Cabinet — herself.

The National Unity Government has assembled a more diverse leadership, appointing members of ethnic minorities to top positions. It has ensured that about one-third of its ministers come from groups other than the Bamar majority, and from parties other than the National League of Democracy. Nine of the 37 Cabinet ministers are women.

In June, the unity government said Rohingya Muslims should be given equal rights, in stark contrast to Suu Kyi. She repeatedly refused to criticize the army’s campaign of ethnic violence against the Rohingya in 2017, when thousands were killed and more than 700,000 were driven across the border to Bangladesh. In 2019, she defended the army’s brutal conduct at The Hague, prompting calls for her to return the Nobel Peace Prize she was awarded in 1991.

The unity government has also proposed federalism as a way to reach out to the country’s ethnic groups. It announced that, if it took power, it would repeal the 2008 constitution, which gives the military authority to block any constitutional change that could undermine its power.

“I think a lot of the dynamics and a lot of the story has moved beyond Aung San Suu Kyi,” said Richard Horsey, a senior adviser on Myanmar for the International Crisis Group. “It’s not because she’s no longer loved and respected. It’s just that she’s been silenced, and a lot of things have happened without her and have taken on a life of their own.”

The National Unity Government lists Suu Kyi as one of its top leaders and has retained her title of state counselor. But it has also signaled a desire to move away from the model of concentrated power she employed as head of the civilian half of the government for five years.

The unity government says it will seek a broader consensus and take advice from a political body called the National Unity Consultative Council, which is made up of lawmakers from several political parties, ethnic armed organizations, civil society and people belonging to the broad-based protest movement.

“Our organization will not be led by a single person,” Ko Naing, of the activist group 88 Generation Peace and Open Society, said at a news conference last month to unveil the consultative council. “It will be more like a collective leadership.”

Suu Kyi has been held incommunicado in a house in Naypyitaw, the capital of Myanmar. One person who has spoken with her on several occasions since her arrest said her legal team had kept her informed on major events and the steps being taken by the shadow government, but that she was in no position to offer advice or guidance.

In private, she has expressed concern about the fate of the people and the brutality they have faced at the hands of the military. She was especially concerned that so many people had been killed and that so many young people were taking up arms.

Moe Zaw Oo, the deputy foreign minister under the unity government, said he believed that if Suu Kyi were to be released, she would support the decisions it was making while she was detained.

“There were times during her house arrest in the 1990s and 2000s when the NLD had to make decisions in her absence,” said Moe Zaw Oo, who once served as an aide to her. “Later, when she was out, she respected those decisions and understood that decisions had to be made under certain circumstances. So, this time again, I believe she will accept what the remaining NLD leaders had to do.”

But Thinzar Shunlei Yi, a 30-year-old rights activist in Myanmar, said the revolution did not need Suu Kyi anymore because she “has done her part.”

“We want to draft a new script for our country because the time has come,” she said. “Now this is the time for the younger generations and the ethnic leaders to take the leadership positions. Because the country is not just about one person. It’s about everyone.”

Khin Zaw Win, director of the Tampadipa Institute, a policy advocacy organization based in Yangon, Myanmar’s most populous city, said none of the measures promised by the National Unity Government would have happened under “the shadow of Aung San Suu Kyi.”

He pointed out that she did not plan for a successor or bring new blood into the National League of Democracy, which he said was run like an “exclusive” club. Instead, she surrounded herself with advisers in their 70s and 80s.

“Every day, day by day, Aung San Suu Kyi has less and less to do with the revolution,” said Khin Zaw Win. “The show can go on without her. It’s better for the show to go on without her.”

When a court in Myanmar on Monday sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi to four years in custody, it closed a chapter on an era of weak and compromised democracy in a Southeast Asian nation long ruled by a military fist.

When a court in Myanmar on Monday sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi to four years in custody, it closed a chapter on an era of weak and compromised democracy in a Southeast Asian nation long ruled by a military fist. But already, a new democratic movement has emerged — younger, more progressive, more confrontational and ready to look beyond Suu Kyi for a guiding light. Hope now rests with an immensely popular shadow government that formed after Suu Kyi, Myanmar’s civilian leader, was detained by the military in a Feb. 1 coup. The challenges are immense for this new group of leaders, known as the National Unity Government, many of whom are forced to operate from exile. The junta is unlikely to be dislodged without unimaginable bloodshed. It and thousands of protesters, some of whom have taken up arms, are locked in a violent stalemate, prompting a top U.N. official to warn of an “alarming possibility of an escalating civil war.” No foreign nation has recognized the shadow government, although its representatives have met with senior U.S. officials, including national security adviser Jake Sullivan. What is clear, however, is that politics in Myanmar have been reshaped. The self-proclaimed government has reach throughout society. With the help of the protest movement, it operates underground schools, clinics and hospitals. When it announced last month that it would sell “bonds” to fund its revolution, it raised $6.3 million in one day. In September, it called for a “people’s war” against the junta, prompting thousands of protesters known as the People’s Defense Forces to prepare for armed conflict. “The landscape has completely changed,” said Khin Ohmar, a veteran democracy activist based in Virginia who runs a human rights organization in Myanmar. “The mainstream politics, the actors, the people’s political awareness — it’s all very different.” Suu Kyi still has legions of devoted followers in Myanmar, who decry the military’s treatment of her. After her sentencing Monday to four years on charges of inciting public unrest and breaching COVID-19 protocols, she is facing a further series of verdicts that could keep her locked up for the rest of her life. But there is a deeper recognition now that her government let down many people, including ethnic minorities and rights activists. Suu Kyi’s vision of democracy, both by circumstance and by choice, was constricted. Most of the ministers she appointed came from the Bamar ethnic majority and nearly all of them belonged to her party, the National League of Democracy, or were people who supported the NLD. When she headed the civilian government, she named only one woman to the Cabinet — herself. The National Unity Government has assembled a more diverse leadership, appointing members of ethnic minorities to top positions. It has ensured that about one-third of its ministers come from groups other than the Bamar majority, and from parties other than the National League of Democracy. Nine of the 37 Cabinet ministers are women. In June, the unity government said Rohingya Muslims should be given equal rights, in stark contrast to Suu Kyi. She repeatedly refused to criticize the army’s campaign of ethnic violence against the Rohingya in 2017, when thousands were killed and more than 700,000 were driven across the border to Bangladesh. In 2019, she defended the army’s brutal conduct at The Hague, prompting calls for her to return the Nobel Peace Prize she was awarded in 1991. The unity government has also proposed federalism as a way to reach out to the country’s ethnic groups. It announced that, if it took power, it would repeal the 2008 constitution, which gives the military authority to block any constitutional change that could undermine its power. “I think a lot of the dynamics and a lot of the story has moved beyond Aung San Suu Kyi,” said Richard Horsey, a senior adviser on Myanmar for the International Crisis Group. “It’s not because she’s no longer loved and respected. It’s just that she’s been silenced, and a lot of things have happened without her and have taken on a life of their own.” The National Unity Government lists Suu Kyi as one of its top leaders and has retained her title of state counselor. But it has also signaled a desire to move away from the model of concentrated power she employed as head of the civilian half of the government for five years. The unity government says it will seek a broader consensus and take advice from a political body called the National Unity Consultative Council, which is made up of lawmakers from several political parties, ethnic armed organizations, civil society and people belonging to the broad-based protest movement. “Our organization will not be led by a single person,” Ko Naing, of the activist group 88 Generation Peace and Open Society, said at a news conference last month to unveil the consultative council. “It will be more like a collective leadership.” Suu Kyi has been held incommunicado in a house in Naypyitaw, the capital of Myanmar. One person who has spoken with her on several occasions since her arrest said her legal team had kept her informed on major events and the steps being taken by the shadow government, but that she was in no position to offer advice or guidance. In private, she has expressed concern about the fate of the people and the brutality they have faced at the hands of the military. She was especially concerned that so many people had been killed and that so many young people were taking up arms. Moe Zaw Oo, the deputy foreign minister under the unity government, said he believed that if Suu Kyi were to be released, she would support the decisions it was making while she was detained. “There were times during her house arrest in the 1990s and 2000s when the NLD had to make decisions in her absence,” said Moe Zaw Oo, who once served as an aide to her. “Later, when she was out, she respected those decisions and understood that decisions had to be made under certain circumstances. So, this time again, I believe she will accept what the remaining NLD leaders had to do.” But Thinzar Shunlei Yi, a 30-year-old rights activist in Myanmar, said the revolution did not need Suu Kyi anymore because she “has done her part.” “We want to draft a new script for our country because the time has come,” she said. “Now this is the time for the younger generations and the ethnic leaders to take the leadership positions. Because the country is not just about one person. It’s about everyone.” Khin Zaw Win, director of the Tampadipa Institute, a policy advocacy organization based in Yangon, Myanmar’s most populous city, said none of the measures promised by the National Unity Government would have happened under “the shadow of Aung San Suu Kyi.” He pointed out that she did not plan for a successor or bring new blood into the National League of Democracy, which he said was run like an “exclusive” club. Instead, she surrounded herself with advisers in their 70s and 80s. “Every day, day by day, Aung San Suu Kyi has less and less to do with the revolution,” said Khin Zaw Win. “The show can go on without her. It’s better for the show to go on without her.”

Suu Kyi falls, but Myanmar’s democratic hopes move on

Deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi was unable to attend a scheduled court hearing for health reasons, her legal team said on Monday.

A member of her legal team described her condition as dizziness caused by motion sickness.

The 76-year-old leader, who has been detained on various charges since her overthrow in a military coup on 1 February, did not have coronavirus but felt ill having not travelled in a vehicle for a long time, her lawyer Min Min Soe told Reuters.

“It is not serious sickness... She suffered car sickness. She cannot stand that feeling and told us she wanted to take a rest,” Soe was quoted as saying.

Suu Kyi is on trial in the capital Naypyitaw over charges that include illegal importation and possession of walkie-talkie radios and violating coronavirus protocols.

She is also facing charges in a separate case of accepting bribes and violating a state secrets law

&nbsp;Her lawyers reject all of the allegations.

Khin Maung Zaw, who is leading her legal team, said Aung San Suu Kyi could not take the stand on Monday and the judge consented to her absence.

“She seemed to be ill, sneezing and said she was drowsy. Therefore, the lawyers talked only briefly with her,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi was unable to attend a scheduled court hearing for health reasons, her legal team said on Monday. A member of her legal team described her condition as dizziness caused by motion sickness.

Deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi was unable to attend a scheduled court hearing for health reasons, her legal team said on Monday. A member of her legal team described her condition as dizziness caused by motion sickness. The 76-year-old leader, who has been detained on various charges since her overthrow in a military coup on 1 February, did not have coronavirus but felt ill having not travelled in a vehicle for a long time, her lawyer Min Min Soe told Reuters. “It is not serious sickness... She suffered car sickness. She cannot stand that feeling and told us she wanted to take a rest,” Soe was quoted as saying. Suu Kyi is on trial in the capital Naypyitaw over charges that include illegal importation and possession of walkie-talkie radios and violating coronavirus protocols. She is also facing charges in a separate case of accepting bribes and violating a state secrets law Her lawyers reject all of the allegations. Khin Maung Zaw, who is leading her legal team, said Aung San Suu Kyi could not take the stand on Monday and the judge consented to her absence. “She seemed to be ill, sneezing and said she was drowsy. Therefore, the lawyers talked only briefly with her,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar’s Suu Kyi skips court hearing citing ‘dizziness’

Protesters have destroyed around a dozen military-owned communications towers in&nbsp;Myanmar, witnesses and reports said Wednesday, after the country's self-proclaimed shadow government issued a call for a "defensive war" against the junta.

The country has been in chaos since the military seized power in February, sparking mass pro-democracy rallies followed by a deadly crackdown and renewed fighting with ethnic rebel militias in border areas.

More than 1,000 civilians have been killed and nearly 8,000 arrested, according to local observers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-soldiers-aiming-to-silence-protests-target-journalists-375047">Myanmar soldiers, aiming to silence protests, target journalists</a>

Protesters said they targeted 11 mobile phone masts belonging to the military-owned Mytel, one of the country's four main cell networks, in the town of Budalin in the central Sagaing region.

"Our intention is to destroy the military business. Their businesses support (them) to maintain their power. Therefore, we have to destroy it," a resident involved in the operation told AFP.

Video footage from local media shows an explosion at the base of one tower followed by the structure falling down, to applause from onlookers.

Two more masts were destroyed elsewhere in the Sagaing region, local sources told AFP.

<h2>'Defensive war'&nbsp;</h2>

While attacks on military-owned infrastructure and businesses have been seen before, Tuesday's spate of blasts comes after a call to arms from the so-called National Unity Government (NUG).

The NUG, which claims to be the country's legitimate government, is made up of dissident lawmakers in hiding or exile, many of them from ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi's party.

NUG acting president Duwa Lashi La on Tuesday urged citizens to target military assets in their areas.

"We launch a people's defensive war against the junta," he said in a recorded video.

"All citizens within...&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;revolt against the military terrorists led by Min Aung Hlaing."

As early as May the NUG announced the formation of "people's defence forces" to take on the junta's heavily-armed, battle-hardened troops, but they have yet to have a major impact.

The military authorities -- officially known as the State Administration Council (SAC) -- dismiss the NUG and its affiliates as "terrorists" seeking to bring the country to ruin.

Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun accused the NUG of attention-seeking ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week which will consider whether the junta or shadow government should represent&nbsp;Myanmar.

"The terrorist groups realise that they are nearly failing. That's why the attempt to keep up their efforts in order to grab international attention," Zaw Min Tun said in a statement.

The junta has defended its power grab by alleging massive fraud during elections in late 2020 which Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won by a landslide.

Military chief Min Aung Hlaing -- named by the SAC as prime minister of a "caretaker government" -- last month pledged to hold fresh elections by August 2023.

Protesters have destroyed around a dozen military-owned communications towers in Myanmar, witnesses and reports said Wednesday, after the country's self-proclaimed shadow government issued a call for a "defensive war" against the junta.

Protesters have destroyed around a dozen military-owned communications towers in Myanmar, witnesses and reports said Wednesday, after the country's self-proclaimed shadow government issued a call for a "defensive war" against the junta. The country has been in chaos since the military seized power in February, sparking mass pro-democracy rallies followed by a deadly crackdown and renewed fighting with ethnic rebel militias in border areas. More than 1,000 civilians have been killed and nearly 8,000 arrested, according to local observers. Also read | Myanmar soldiers, aiming to silence protests, target journalists Protesters said they targeted 11 mobile phone masts belonging to the military-owned Mytel, one of the country's four main cell networks, in the town of Budalin in the central Sagaing region. "Our intention is to destroy the military business. Their businesses support (them) to maintain their power. Therefore, we have to destroy it," a resident involved in the operation told AFP. Video footage from local media shows an explosion at the base of one tower followed by the structure falling down, to applause from onlookers. Two more masts were destroyed elsewhere in the Sagaing region, local sources told AFP. 'Defensive war' While attacks on military-owned infrastructure and businesses have been seen before, Tuesday's spate of blasts comes after a call to arms from the so-called National Unity Government (NUG). The NUG, which claims to be the country's legitimate government, is made up of dissident lawmakers in hiding or exile, many of them from ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi's party. NUG acting president Duwa Lashi La on Tuesday urged citizens to target military assets in their areas. "We launch a people's defensive war against the junta," he said in a recorded video. "All citizens within... Myanmar revolt against the military terrorists led by Min Aung Hlaing." As early as May the NUG announced the formation of "people's defence forces" to take on the junta's heavily-armed, battle-hardened troops, but they have yet to have a major impact. The military authorities -- officially known as the State Administration Council (SAC) -- dismiss the NUG and its affiliates as "terrorists" seeking to bring the country to ruin. Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun accused the NUG of attention-seeking ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week which will consider whether the junta or shadow government should represent Myanmar. "The terrorist groups realise that they are nearly failing. That's why the attempt to keep up their efforts in order to grab international attention," Zaw Min Tun said in a statement. The junta has defended its power grab by alleging massive fraud during elections in late 2020 which Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy won by a landslide. Military chief Min Aung Hlaing -- named by the SAC as prime minister of a "caretaker government" -- last month pledged to hold fresh elections by August 2023.

Myanmar cell towers attacked after shadow government 'war' call

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taiwan-advises-firms-in-myanmar-to-fly-flags-hand-signs-to-distinguish-from-china-370632">Myanmar's </a>military slapped more charges against Aung San Suu Kyi as the state-controlled television reported that a prominent businessman had claimed to give the ousted leader about $550,000 in illegal payments in 2019 and 2020 when she was still the state counsellor.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-coup-india-reacts-to-the-situation-in-myanmar-371041/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The military junta which seized power in a coup on February 1 had announced last week that it was investigating Suu Kyi who is currently being held in detention&nbsp;on suspicion of bribery.

Suu Kyi has also been charged separately with illegally importing communications equipment and violating anti-coronavirus rules.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the anti-coup <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-bloody-crackdown-myanmar-buddhist-group-signals-break-with-authorities-371162">protests</a> continued across the country on Wednesday with hundreds of people from two villages calling for the military to step down. The anti-military protests which had begun in cities has spread to rural areas.

Demonstrators from Nyin-maw and Ti-zit villages protested on motorbikes and marched across roads carrying banners against the military. At least 180 protesters have been killed across the country since February.

The military had imposed a state emergency for one year after taking over power as protests surged across the country. The military had imposed martial law in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yangon-residents-flee-amid-martial-law-as-food-crisis-looms-in-myanmar-371016"> Yangon</a> townships of Hlaing Tharyar, an industrial area leading migrant workers to flee the area.

Amid the violence, deputy secretary of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) Debbie Stothard said: &nbsp;"Hlaing Tharyar has become an urban war zone."

The military has also clamped down on the Internet in large parts of the country and also placed the country under a nightly internet shutdown for eight hours.&nbsp;

However, protests have continued in the country in Hpakant and central Sagaing regions including in the country's second-largest city Mandalay where demonstrators were seen carrying the red flags of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party.

Myanmar's military slapped more charges against Aung San Suu Kyi as the state-controlled television reported that a prominent businessman had claimed to give the ousted leader about $550,000 in illegal payments in 2019 and 2020 when she was still the state counsellor.

Myanmar's military slapped more charges against Aung San Suu Kyi as the state-controlled television reported that a prominent businessman had claimed to give the ousted leader about $550,000 in illegal payments in 2019 and 2020 when she was still the state counsellor. Watch: The military junta which seized power in a coup on February 1 had announced last week that it was investigating Suu Kyi who is currently being held in detention on suspicion of bribery. Suu Kyi has also been charged separately with illegally importing communications equipment and violating anti-coronavirus rules. Meanwhile, the anti-coup protests continued across the country on Wednesday with hundreds of people from two villages calling for the military to step down. The anti-military protests which had begun in cities has spread to rural areas. Demonstrators from Nyin-maw and Ti-zit villages protested on motorbikes and marched across roads carrying banners against the military. At least 180 protesters have been killed across the country since February. The military had imposed a state emergency for one year after taking over power as protests surged across the country. The military had imposed martial law in Yangon townships of Hlaing Tharyar, an industrial area leading migrant workers to flee the area. Amid the violence, deputy secretary of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) Debbie Stothard said: "Hlaing Tharyar has become an urban war zone." The military has also clamped down on the Internet in large parts of the country and also placed the country under a nightly internet shutdown for eight hours. However, protests have continued in the country in Hpakant and central Sagaing regions including in the country's second-largest city Mandalay where demonstrators were seen carrying the red flags of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party.

Aung San Suu Kyi faces new charges amid anti-military protests in Myanmar

Authorities in Myanmar have asked New Delhi to return police officers who fled across the border and sought refuge in India.

Around 30 Myanmar police and their family members came across the border seeking refuge in recent days, as the military junta's suppression of protesters has turned increasingly violent, with dozens killed since the February 1 coup.

They wanted to avoid taking orders from the junta, an official in northeastern India said on Saturday.

According to Reuters, the senior-most official in Champhai, Mizoram, had received a letter from her counterpart in Myanmar's Falam district requesting the return of eight police officers "in order to uphold friendly relations."

Deputy Commissioner Maria CT Zuali said on Saturday that she was "waiting for the direction" from the India's Ministry for Home Affairs in New Delhi.

In the letter, Myanmar authorities said they had information on eight police personnel who had crossed into India. The letter listed details for four police, aged between 22 and 25 years, including a female officer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-myanmar-police-officers-seek-refuge-in-india-rather-than-carry-out-juntas-orders-368000">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar police officers seek refuge in India rather than carry out junta's orders</a>

"In order to uphold friendly relations between the two neighbour countries, you are kindly requested to detain 8 Myanmar police personnel who had arrived to Indian territories and hand-over to Myanmar," the letter said.

It was reported earlier on Thursday that as many as19 Myanmar police officers had crossed over the border into northeastern India to escape taking orders from the military junta.

On February 1, the junta overthrew a democratically-elected government, and detained its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, having disputed her party's landslide victory in November.

The junta justified its coup by making unfounded allegations that Suu Kyi's party rigged the election.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi, 75, is reportedly being detained in Naypyidaw, the isolated capital that the military built during its previous, decades-long dictatorship.

India shares a 1,643-kilometre (1020-mile) land border with Myanmar, where more than 50 people have been killed since the coup.

(with inputs from agencies)

Authorities in Myanmar have asked New Delhi to return police officers who fled across the border and sought refuge in India. Around 30 Myanmar police and their family members came across the border seeking refuge in recent days, as the military junta's suppression of protesters has turned increasingly violent, with dozens killed since the February 1 coup.

Authorities in Myanmar have asked New Delhi to return police officers who fled across the border and sought refuge in India. Around 30 Myanmar police and their family members came across the border seeking refuge in recent days, as the military junta's suppression of protesters has turned increasingly violent, with dozens killed since the February 1 coup. They wanted to avoid taking orders from the junta, an official in northeastern India said on Saturday. According to Reuters, the senior-most official in Champhai, Mizoram, had received a letter from her counterpart in Myanmar's Falam district requesting the return of eight police officers "in order to uphold friendly relations." Deputy Commissioner Maria CT Zuali said on Saturday that she was "waiting for the direction" from the India's Ministry for Home Affairs in New Delhi. In the letter, Myanmar authorities said they had information on eight police personnel who had crossed into India. The letter listed details for four police, aged between 22 and 25 years, including a female officer. Also read | Myanmar police officers seek refuge in India rather than carry out junta's orders "In order to uphold friendly relations between the two neighbour countries, you are kindly requested to detain 8 Myanmar police personnel who had arrived to Indian territories and hand-over to Myanmar," the letter said. It was reported earlier on Thursday that as many as19 Myanmar police officers had crossed over the border into northeastern India to escape taking orders from the military junta. On February 1, the junta overthrew a democratically-elected government, and detained its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, having disputed her party's landslide victory in November. The junta justified its coup by making unfounded allegations that Suu Kyi's party rigged the election. Suu Kyi, 75, is reportedly being detained in Naypyidaw, the isolated capital that the military built during its previous, decades-long dictatorship. India shares a 1,643-kilometre (1020-mile) land border with Myanmar, where more than 50 people have been killed since the coup. (with inputs from agencies)

Myanmar asks India to return eight police who fled across border

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