For about two years, says 24-year-old Yan, a former Myanmar police officer, he risked his life pretending to serve the military junta while secretly spying for the armed resistance.

“I freed myself from unfair orders,” he told Reuters from a room in a town near the Myanmar border where he said he was taking refuge after fleeing the country in April. Yan declined to give his full name because of the threat to his life. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Myanmar's junta is facing the fiercest threat to its power since seizing control in a 2021 coup as it battles an unprecedented alliance of opponents while weakened by some internal dissent and defections.

The junta did not respond to requests for comment by Reuters. It has acknowledged some loss of control. 
 
The junta has not commented on spies within its ranks, but pro-military social media channels have exposed soldiers who appear sympathetic to the rebels.

Opposition groups said it was difficult to determine how many members of the security forces supplied information to the resistance, and their number was likely small given the risk, but they play a crucial role.

They have supplied intelligence, including about the transportation of military supplies, that has helped opposition groups plan attacks, a spokesperson for People’s Goal, a group that supports defectors, told Reuters.

“We have received information which has saved lives,” the spokesperson said, referring to tip-offs about impending attacks or air strikes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drop-bombs-retaking-myanmar-sky-675089">Watch |&nbsp;'Drop Bombs' retaking Myanmar sky</a>

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<h2>Watermelons</h2>

Yan, who joined the police force in late 2020, following in the footsteps of his brother, said he became disillusioned after the coup when he witnessed the arbitrary arrest of protesters during a brutal military crackdown.

“People started treating us like ghosts,” Yan said. “They hated us.”

He said his brother fled the country and connected Yan to opposition groups cultivating sources inside the security forces known in Burmese as “watermelons” – green on the outside, appearing loyal to the army, but red, the colour of the ousted National League for Democracy government, on the inside.

Yan said he crept out of the police station and sent messages by phone out of sight of his colleagues, including about routes taken by senior junta figures and the number of police, fuel, and weapons in various places. He said he did not know how the rebel groups used the information he supplied.

Reuters could not independently confirm his account. 
 
One military defector told Reuters it was rare for members of the armed forces to spy for rebel groups but there were many who “turned a blind eye” to rebel activities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-rebel-groups-launch-attacks-against-military-junta-652067">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar: Rebel groups launch attacks against military junta</a>

<h2>Mass defections</h2>

Internal dissent poses a serious problem for the junta, some analysts say. Washington D.C-based think-tank the United States Institute for Peace estimates as many as 8,000 people have fled the security forces.

Yan and his brother, Ye, said the junta was struggling to recruit while police were poorly equipped and trained, making them reluctant to fight and quick to surrender, the pair said.

Previously, military battalions were made up of several hundred members but now most number little more than 130, a figure analysts agree with, former army captain Htet Myat told Reuters by phone.

Htet Myat, now a prominent opposition figure helping defectors, said the recent offensive had accelerated defections.

But, stranded in a foreign country, life can be a hard scrabble. Yan, who is single, and his brother and sister-in-law have started a business making and selling fabric printed with leaves from their home country.

Yan said their sacrifice amounted to a fraction of that made by others.

“I did what I had to do,” he said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

For about two years, says 24-year-old Yan, a former Myanmar police officer, he risked his life pretending to serve the military junta while secretly spying for the armed resistance.

For about two years, says 24-year-old Yan, a former Myanmar police officer, he risked his life pretending to serve the military junta while secretly spying for the armed resistance. “I freed myself from unfair orders,” he told Reuters from a room in a town near the Myanmar border where he said he was taking refuge after fleeing the country in April. Yan declined to give his full name because of the threat to his life. Myanmar's junta is facing the fiercest threat to its power since seizing control in a 2021 coup as it battles an unprecedented alliance of opponents while weakened by some internal dissent and defections. The junta did not respond to requests for comment by Reuters. It has acknowledged some loss of control. The junta has not commented on spies within its ranks, but pro-military social media channels have exposed soldiers who appear sympathetic to the rebels. Opposition groups said it was difficult to determine how many members of the security forces supplied information to the resistance, and their number was likely small given the risk, but they play a crucial role. They have supplied intelligence, including about the transportation of military supplies, that has helped opposition groups plan attacks, a spokesperson for People’s Goal, a group that supports defectors, told Reuters. “We have received information which has saved lives,” the spokesperson said, referring to tip-offs about impending attacks or air strikes. Watch | 'Drop Bombs' retaking Myanmar sky × Watermelons Yan, who joined the police force in late 2020, following in the footsteps of his brother, said he became disillusioned after the coup when he witnessed the arbitrary arrest of protesters during a brutal military crackdown. “People started treating us like ghosts,” Yan said. “They hated us.” He said his brother fled the country and connected Yan to opposition groups cultivating sources inside the security forces known in Burmese as “watermelons” – green on the outside, appearing loyal to the army, but red, the colour of the ousted National League for Democracy government, on the inside. Yan said he crept out of the police station and sent messages by phone out of sight of his colleagues, including about routes taken by senior junta figures and the number of police, fuel, and weapons in various places. He said he did not know how the rebel groups used the information he supplied. Reuters could not independently confirm his account. One military defector told Reuters it was rare for members of the armed forces to spy for rebel groups but there were many who “turned a blind eye” to rebel activities. Also read | Myanmar: Rebel groups launch attacks against military junta Mass defections Internal dissent poses a serious problem for the junta, some analysts say. Washington D.C-based think-tank the United States Institute for Peace estimates as many as 8,000 people have fled the security forces. Yan and his brother, Ye, said the junta was struggling to recruit while police were poorly equipped and trained, making them reluctant to fight and quick to surrender, the pair said. Previously, military battalions were made up of several hundred members but now most number little more than 130, a figure analysts agree with, former army captain Htet Myat told Reuters by phone. Htet Myat, now a prominent opposition figure helping defectors, said the recent offensive had accelerated defections. But, stranded in a foreign country, life can be a hard scrabble. Yan, who is single, and his brother and sister-in-law have started a business making and selling fabric printed with leaves from their home country. Yan said their sacrifice amounted to a fraction of that made by others. “I did what I had to do,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar junta’s ‘watermelons’ challenge; soldiers on the outside, spies inside

Myanmar's military rulers are facing their biggest test since they seized power in 2021 coup, after three ethnic minority forces launched a coordinated offensive capturing some towns and military posts.

Myanmar rebel groups take control of a border post with India, capture several towns | WION

Myanmar’s junta-backed president said that the country is at risk of breaking apart if the military cannot manage the joint offensive by ethnic armed groups along the border with China, state media reported on Thursday (Nov 9).&nbsp;

Three ethnic insurgent armies – supported by other armed groups opposing the government – in the military-ruled country’s northern Shan State where fighting has reportedly raged for two weeks, now have overrun dozens of military posts and captured border crossings, as well as roads which carry out trade with China.&nbsp;

These actions along the border have become the Myanmar junta’s biggest challenge to its authority since it seized power following a coup in 2021, as per analysts. The attacks are said to be taking place on junta bases in the north, northeast, northwest and southeast by pro-democracy and ethnic minority insurgents.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Country will split’</h2>

Speaking at a national defence and security council meeting, Myint Swe, president of the state administration council said, “If the government does not effectively manage the incidents happening in the border region, the country will be split into various parts.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dozens-killed-in-deadly-myanmar-military-strike-on-refugee-camp-644718">Myanmar: Dozens including children killed in deadly military strike on refugee camp</a>

“It is necessary to carefully control this issue. As now is an important time for the state, the entire people need to support Tatmadaw,” he added, referring to the military.&nbsp;

Myint Swe served as the vice president under the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi which was ousted by the military over two years ago. He was later appointed as the president by the junta.&nbsp;

<h2>Can armed groups beat the military-backed government?</h2>

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army and the Arakan Army, as per AFP, claimed to have seized dozens of military outposts and blocked vital trade routes to China, in what is said to be one of the most significant setbacks that the junta has witnessed since it took power.&nbsp;

While the military has responded with airstrikes and artillery bombardments forcing thousands to leave their home, it has been unable to recover the ground they have lost during the fighting, as per media reports.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-junta-marks-rebel-ceasefire-even-as-clashes-erupt-647205">Myanmar: Military junta marks rebel ceasefire anniversary even as clashes erupt</a> 
 
The junta has also previously admitted to losing control of key trade towns on the border with China to an alliance of guerrilla factions but had not commented on the progress of the fighting.

There have also been reports of clashes elsewhere across the country between the military and opposition fighters, which could not be immediately verified.&nbsp;

People’s Defence Forces (PDF), a group which is said to have sprung up since the coup, had set “fire to government buildings, roads and bridges” in several townships in the country’s northern Sagaing, the national security meeting was told, according to AFP.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the group also claimed to have seized the town of Kawlin in Sagaing.

<h2>China confirms casualties</h2>

On Tuesday (Nov 7), Beijing, which is said to be a major junta ally and arms supplier, confirmed that there have been Chinese casualties due to firing from Myanmar fighting spilling over onto China’s side of the border.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-military-convoy-attacked-by-rebels-in-myanmar-claims-junta-610830">Chinese military convoy attacked by rebels in Myanmar, claims junta</a>

However, the foreign ministry spokesperson did not give any further details about how many Chinese people were killed or wounded.&nbsp;

“Chinese citizens who have already been in the local areas of intense conflict should pay close attention to the development of the situation and move to safety or return to China,” said China’s foreign ministry on Thursday (Nov 9), in a statement.&nbsp;

It also urged citizens to stay away from areas with “fierce conflicts” and avoid travelling to Myanmar.

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar’s junta-backed president said that the country is at risk of breaking apart if the military cannot manage the joint offensive by ethnic armed groups along the border with China, state media reported on Thursday (Nov 9).

Myanmar’s junta-backed president said that the country is at risk of breaking apart if the military cannot manage the joint offensive by ethnic armed groups along the border with China, state media reported on Thursday (Nov 9). Three ethnic insurgent armies – supported by other armed groups opposing the government – in the military-ruled country’s northern Shan State where fighting has reportedly raged for two weeks, now have overrun dozens of military posts and captured border crossings, as well as roads which carry out trade with China. These actions along the border have become the Myanmar junta’s biggest challenge to its authority since it seized power following a coup in 2021, as per analysts. The attacks are said to be taking place on junta bases in the north, northeast, northwest and southeast by pro-democracy and ethnic minority insurgents. ‘Country will split’ Speaking at a national defence and security council meeting, Myint Swe, president of the state administration council said, “If the government does not effectively manage the incidents happening in the border region, the country will be split into various parts.” ALSO READ | Myanmar: Dozens including children killed in deadly military strike on refugee camp “It is necessary to carefully control this issue. As now is an important time for the state, the entire people need to support Tatmadaw,” he added, referring to the military. Myint Swe served as the vice president under the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi which was ousted by the military over two years ago. He was later appointed as the president by the junta. Can armed groups beat the military-backed government? The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army and the Arakan Army, as per AFP, claimed to have seized dozens of military outposts and blocked vital trade routes to China, in what is said to be one of the most significant setbacks that the junta has witnessed since it took power. While the military has responded with airstrikes and artillery bombardments forcing thousands to leave their home, it has been unable to recover the ground they have lost during the fighting, as per media reports. ALSO READ | Myanmar: Military junta marks rebel ceasefire anniversary even as clashes erupt The junta has also previously admitted to losing control of key trade towns on the border with China to an alliance of guerrilla factions but had not commented on the progress of the fighting. There have also been reports of clashes elsewhere across the country between the military and opposition fighters, which could not be immediately verified. People’s Defence Forces (PDF), a group which is said to have sprung up since the coup, had set “fire to government buildings, roads and bridges” in several townships in the country’s northern Sagaing, the national security meeting was told, according to AFP. Earlier this week, the group also claimed to have seized the town of Kawlin in Sagaing. China confirms casualties On Tuesday (Nov 7), Beijing, which is said to be a major junta ally and arms supplier, confirmed that there have been Chinese casualties due to firing from Myanmar fighting spilling over onto China’s side of the border. ALSO READ | Chinese military convoy attacked by rebels in Myanmar, claims junta However, the foreign ministry spokesperson did not give any further details about how many Chinese people were killed or wounded. “Chinese citizens who have already been in the local areas of intense conflict should pay close attention to the development of the situation and move to safety or return to China,” said China’s foreign ministry on Thursday (Nov 9), in a statement. It also urged citizens to stay away from areas with “fierce conflicts” and avoid travelling to Myanmar. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar: Armed rebellion puts country at risk of breaking apart, says junta-backed president

Resistance groups in Myanmar who have been fighting the military junta for nearly two weeks, seized a district capital in the north on Monday (Nov 6) after taking state offices and a police station, the news agency Associated Press reported citing local media.

Resistance groups in Myanmar who have been fighting the military junta for nearly two weeks, seized a district capital in the north on Monday (Nov 6) after taking state offices and a police station, the news agency Associated Press reported citing local media. As per the report, Kawlin in the Sangaing region is the first capital seized by resistance forces in a four-day offensive after the junta ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. Sangaing has been a stronghold of armed resistance to the army. Last Friday, clashes began at Kawlin with coordinated attacks by a combined force of at least three local resistance groups including the Kawlin People's Defense Force. Videos posted by local media outlets showed resistance fighters clearing the bodies of soldiers and police killed in battle from damaged buildings. On Oct 27, ethnic rebel groups including the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) said that they launched a military operation against the junta. 20 military personnel, 3 resistance fighters killed A resident told the Associated Press that resistance fighters seized the Kawlin police station last Sunday and a township administration office a day later. By Monday morning, resistance groups took control of the whole district. The resident, who chose to remain anonymous, said the Kachin Independence Army and the Kachin Independence Organization were among the resistance forces taking part. He further said that over 20 military personnel and three resistance fighters were killed in the clashes and the number of civilians killed was not yet known. Another resident, who also spoke on the condition of anonymity, told the news agency that around 30,000, including inmates of the local jail, were evacuated into forests and nearby villages by resistance fighters to avoid deaths from air strikes. Residents unable to reach family members Internet and mobile services were almost completely cut off in the area as the fighting intensified. Several Kawlin residents who have been away from the town said on Monday that since last Saturday, they have been unable to reach their family members in the district capital by phone. Meanwhile, the United Nations expressed concerns over the heavy fighting in Myanmar. "We are alarmed by the heavy fighting, particularly in Shan State in the northern part of the country, with reports of... airstrikes that led to civilian casualties and tens of thousands being newly displaced internally," said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "Our humanitarian colleagues tell us that, since 26 October nearly 33,000 men, women and children have been displaced," Dujarric added. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar: Resistance groups claim first capture of district capital from junta

Myanmar's military junta on Sunday (Oct 15), erected roadblocks and deployed heavy security in the military-built capital Naypyidaw to mark the anniversary of rebel ceasefire agreed upon in the year 2015. Critics say that the ceasefire is now defunct.

For decades, dozens of rebel groups have fought with Myanmar's military over autonomy and control of lucrative resources. Ten of these groups had signed a Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA).

Critics say that since military junta's 2021 coup, the ceasefire agreement is in tatters. The coup, that toppled civilian government by Aung San Suu Kyi sparked renewed fighting with some of the signatories of the government.

Officials from seven of the ten signatories attended the event in Naypyidaw, where barricades and plainclothes security were deployed.

Diplomats from Russia and China -- allies and arms suppliers of the internationally isolated junta -- also attended, as did a representative from India.

Timor-Leste sent a representative although the day came just weeks after Myanmar's military junta ordered expulsion of its diplomat because of a meeting his government held with a shadow "National Unity Government" which is working to overturn the coup.

Several rebel groups have trained and armed anti-coup fighters battling to overturn the military regime.

Two of these groups: the Chin National Front (CNF) and the Karen National Union (KNU), have said last week that the coup made implementation of the previous agreement "impossible".

The KNU and the CNF have regularly fought with the military since its takeover, in the far east and west of the country respectively.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Myanmar's military junta on Sunday (Oct 15), erected roadblocks and deployed heavy security in the military-built capital Naypyidaw to mark the anniversary of rebel ceasefire agreed upon in the year 2015.

Myanmar's military junta on Sunday (Oct 15), erected roadblocks and deployed heavy security in the military-built capital Naypyidaw to mark the anniversary of rebel ceasefire agreed upon in the year 2015. Critics say that the ceasefire is now defunct. For decades, dozens of rebel groups have fought with Myanmar's military over autonomy and control of lucrative resources. Ten of these groups had signed a Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA). Critics say that since military junta's 2021 coup, the ceasefire agreement is in tatters. The coup, that toppled civilian government by Aung San Suu Kyi sparked renewed fighting with some of the signatories of the government. Officials from seven of the ten signatories attended the event in Naypyidaw, where barricades and plainclothes security were deployed. Diplomats from Russia and China -- allies and arms suppliers of the internationally isolated junta -- also attended, as did a representative from India. Timor-Leste sent a representative although the day came just weeks after Myanmar's military junta ordered expulsion of its diplomat because of a meeting his government held with a shadow "National Unity Government" which is working to overturn the coup. Several rebel groups have trained and armed anti-coup fighters battling to overturn the military regime. Two of these groups: the Chin National Front (CNF) and the Karen National Union (KNU), have said last week that the coup made implementation of the previous agreement "impossible". The KNU and the CNF have regularly fought with the military since its takeover, in the far east and west of the country respectively. (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: Military junta marks rebel ceasefire anniversary even as clashes erupt

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Thursday (Sept. 7) that “systematic repression” was dashing hopes of a return to democracy in junta-ruled Myanmar. His remarks came at a summit in Indonesia where ASEAN leaders met with the leaders of the US, China and India, among regional players.

"Brutal violence, worsening poverty, and systematic repression are crushing hopes for a return to democracy," he was quoted as saying by AFP. 
 
He also took the opportunity to call on the international community to seek a unified strategy to end the worsening crisis in Myanmar.

<h2>‘Funding of UN should be boosted’</h2>

The UN chief also called on member nations to restore UN funding to previous record levels to help the world body tackle global crises in a more efficient and effective manner. Referring to the Myanmar crisis, he said the situation has further deteriorated since he last met with the ASEAN leaders back in 2022.

Watch:&nbsp;Myanmar: Election Commission yet to announce new election dates

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The chief also urged Myanmar junta leaders to free political leaders and restore democracy in the country.

<h2>Origin of Myanmar crisis</h2>

Myanmar's military had seized control of the government on February 1, 2021, ousting the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and detaining her along with key members of her National League for Democracy (NLD) party. The NLD had secured a significant victory in the November 2020 general election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-junta-will-likely-hold-elections-in-2025-report-632606">Also read:&nbsp;Myanmar`s junta will likely hold elections in 2025: Report</a>

In response to the military takeover, security forces employed brutal tactics to quell widespread opposition, resulting in the deaths of thousands of civilians and the arrest of many peaceful protesters. This harsh crackdown also incited armed resistance in various parts of the impoverished nation.

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<h2>Rohingya crisis</h2>

Due to the persistent crisis in Myanmar, 700,000 Rohingya refugees have so far sought shelter in Bangladesh due to allegations of mass rapes, killings, and the destruction of countless homes by Myanmar troops. In January 2020, the International Court of Justice, the UN's highest judicial body, ordered Myanmar to take all necessary measures to prevent genocide against the Rohingya population.

"I remain deeply concerned about the worsening political, humanitarian, and human rights situation in Myanmar, including Rakhine State and the plight of the massive number of refugees living in desperate conditions," the UN chief said Thursday.

ASEAN leaders have also acknowledged that their strategy to make progress in Myanmar has so far failed to yield any positive results.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Thursday (Sept. 7) that “systematic repression” was dashing hopes of a return to democracy in junta-ruled Myanmar.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Thursday (Sept. 7) that “systematic repression” was dashing hopes of a return to democracy in junta-ruled Myanmar. His remarks came at a summit in Indonesia where ASEAN leaders met with the leaders of the US, China and India, among regional players. "Brutal violence, worsening poverty, and systematic repression are crushing hopes for a return to democracy," he was quoted as saying by AFP. He also took the opportunity to call on the international community to seek a unified strategy to end the worsening crisis in Myanmar. ‘Funding of UN should be boosted’ The UN chief also called on member nations to restore UN funding to previous record levels to help the world body tackle global crises in a more efficient and effective manner. Referring to the Myanmar crisis, he said the situation has further deteriorated since he last met with the ASEAN leaders back in 2022. Watch: Myanmar: Election Commission yet to announce new election dates × The chief also urged Myanmar junta leaders to free political leaders and restore democracy in the country. Origin of Myanmar crisis Myanmar's military had seized control of the government on February 1, 2021, ousting the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and detaining her along with key members of her National League for Democracy (NLD) party. The NLD had secured a significant victory in the November 2020 general election. Also read: Myanmar`s junta will likely hold elections in 2025: Report In response to the military takeover, security forces employed brutal tactics to quell widespread opposition, resulting in the deaths of thousands of civilians and the arrest of many peaceful protesters. This harsh crackdown also incited armed resistance in various parts of the impoverished nation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Rohingya crisis Due to the persistent crisis in Myanmar, 700,000 Rohingya refugees have so far sought shelter in Bangladesh due to allegations of mass rapes, killings, and the destruction of countless homes by Myanmar troops. In January 2020, the International Court of Justice, the UN's highest judicial body, ordered Myanmar to take all necessary measures to prevent genocide against the Rohingya population. "I remain deeply concerned about the worsening political, humanitarian, and human rights situation in Myanmar, including Rakhine State and the plight of the massive number of refugees living in desperate conditions," the UN chief said Thursday. ASEAN leaders have also acknowledged that their strategy to make progress in Myanmar has so far failed to yield any positive results.

UN chief Guterres says ‘systematic repression’ by junta exacerbating Myanmar crisis

The military junta in Myanmar appears to be miffed with Pakistan as the JF-17 Thunder, a multi-role combat aircraft, supplied by Islamabad to Yangon between 2019 and 2021 has been declared "unfit for operations", according to local Myanmar media <a href="https://www.narinjara.com/news/detail/64ee9e00dc986646c77b707e">reports</a>.&nbsp;

Military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has expressed his displeasure over the faulty condition of the aircraft, with none of the fighter jets being in operational condition. Currently, Myanmar has 11 JF-17 aircraft, developed jointly by China and Pakistan.

Junta's frustrations have increased, especially after Islamabad dispatched a technical team for repair and maintenance of the aircraft, in a rather clandestine manner, last year.

Nearly five years after they were commissioned, the JF-17s still cannot be used for combat by the Myanmar Air Force because of their subpar accuracy, according to Eurasian Times. Consequently,&nbsp;Myanmar’s Air Force is forced to depend on Russian-made Yak-130 and MiG-29 fighter jets and Chinese K-8 fighters.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-26-including-six-children-killed-in-fresh-fighting-between-army-and-resistance-fighters-604760">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar: At least 26, including six children, killed in fresh fighting between army and resistance fighters</a>

<h2>Junta caught between rock and a hard place&nbsp;</h2>

Isolated by the West, the junta has created a military-industrial partnership with Pakistan at China's behest. However, both countries are notorious for their faulty, plagiarised and cheap tech. The junta has found it the hard way but in the absence of options, all it can do is express displeasure and hope the situation improves.

The grounding of JF-17 jets means that Islamabad's hopes of selling&nbsp;heavy machine guns, 60 mm and 81 mm mortars and M-79 grenade launchers to Myanmar may have taken a hit as well. Additionally, the country was hoping to sell air-to-surface missiles for the JF-17 jets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Apart from the horrid run in Myanmar, the JF-17s&nbsp;have had a poor stint in the African nation of Nigeria as well. The Nigerian Airforce (NAF) inducted 15 F-7 NI fighter aircraft in 2009. However, by 2018, six out of the 15 jets had crashed.

Ironically, Pakistan has been struggling with JF-17s as well. Multiple reports have claimed that JF-17 requires&nbsp;high-operational maintenance while costing a fortune to the exchequer, compared to most modern military aircraft.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-abysmal-state-of-armed-conflict-insurgency-chaos-anarchy-details-604681">WATCH |&nbsp;Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos &amp; anarchy | Details</a>

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Since the military removed Myanmar’s democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD) in 2021 and overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi, the country has been in perpetual state of crisis.&nbsp;

The country's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), formed out of the ashes of NLD, is currently fighting against the junta. The JF-17 debacle may come as good news for the Resistance forces who may attempt to seize on the initiative.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The military junta in Myanmar appears to be miffed with Pakistan as the JF-17 Thunder, a multi-role combat aircraft, supplied by Islamabad to Yangon between 2019 and 2021 has been declared "unfit for operations", according to local Myanmar media reports.

The military junta in Myanmar appears to be miffed with Pakistan as the JF-17 Thunder, a multi-role combat aircraft, supplied by Islamabad to Yangon between 2019 and 2021 has been declared "unfit for operations", according to local Myanmar media reports. Military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has expressed his displeasure over the faulty condition of the aircraft, with none of the fighter jets being in operational condition. Currently, Myanmar has 11 JF-17 aircraft, developed jointly by China and Pakistan. Junta's frustrations have increased, especially after Islamabad dispatched a technical team for repair and maintenance of the aircraft, in a rather clandestine manner, last year. Nearly five years after they were commissioned, the JF-17s still cannot be used for combat by the Myanmar Air Force because of their subpar accuracy, according to Eurasian Times. Consequently, Myanmar’s Air Force is forced to depend on Russian-made Yak-130 and MiG-29 fighter jets and Chinese K-8 fighters. Also read | Myanmar: At least 26, including six children, killed in fresh fighting between army and resistance fighters Junta caught between rock and a hard place Isolated by the West, the junta has created a military-industrial partnership with Pakistan at China's behest. However, both countries are notorious for their faulty, plagiarised and cheap tech. The junta has found it the hard way but in the absence of options, all it can do is express displeasure and hope the situation improves. The grounding of JF-17 jets means that Islamabad's hopes of selling heavy machine guns, 60 mm and 81 mm mortars and M-79 grenade launchers to Myanmar may have taken a hit as well. Additionally, the country was hoping to sell air-to-surface missiles for the JF-17 jets. Apart from the horrid run in Myanmar, the JF-17s have had a poor stint in the African nation of Nigeria as well. The Nigerian Airforce (NAF) inducted 15 F-7 NI fighter aircraft in 2009. However, by 2018, six out of the 15 jets had crashed. Ironically, Pakistan has been struggling with JF-17s as well. Multiple reports have claimed that JF-17 requires high-operational maintenance while costing a fortune to the exchequer, compared to most modern military aircraft. WATCH | Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos & anarchy | Details × Since the military removed Myanmar’s democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD) in 2021 and overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi, the country has been in perpetual state of crisis. The country's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), formed out of the ashes of NLD, is currently fighting against the junta. The JF-17 debacle may come as good news for the Resistance forces who may attempt to seize on the initiative. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Myanmar junta troubled by 'unfit for operation' Pakistan-made JF-17 fighter jets

An investigative report published on Tuesday (August 8) by a team of United Nations officials revealed that the war crimes committed by Myanmar's military have become "increasingly frequent and brazen". The war crimes include bombing&nbsp;civilians.&nbsp;

On February 1, 2021, a coup d'état started in Myanmar when democratically elected members of the country's ruling party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), were deposed by the country's military.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/myanmar-why-the-lady-still-matters-622478">Aung San Suu Kyi</a> was detained along with ministers and members of the parliament. Ever since Suu Kyi has been in custody and facing multiple charges.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-taliban-couldnt-silence-her-this-exiled-afghan-journo-is-changing-lives-one-story-at-a-time-623453">Exclusive | Taliban couldn’t silence her: This exiled Afghan journalist is changing lives, one story at a time</a>&nbsp;

Recently, Myanmar's ruling military pardoned Suu Kyi on five of the 19 offences, which means six years will be shaved off her 33-year jail term.

The UN report, published by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), said there was "strong evidence that the Myanmar military and its affiliate militias have committed three types of combat-related war crimes with increasing frequency and brazenness".

The report covered the period between July 2022 and June 2023.&nbsp;

According to the report, these crimes include the indiscriminate or disproportionate targeting of civilians using bombs and the burning of civilian homes and buildings, resulting at times in the destruction of entire villages.

The report also cited "killings of civilians or combatants detained during operations".&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Imran Khan's second innings in politics in the doldrums&nbsp;

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Nicholas Koumjian, head of the IIMM, said: "Our evidence points to a dramatic increase in war crimes and crimes against humanity in the country, with widespread and systematic attacks against civilians, and we are building case files that can be used by courts to hold individual perpetrators responsible."&nbsp;

UN investigators said the Myanmar military "should have known or did know" that a large number of civilians were in or around the alleged targets when the attacks took place. But the junta has justified bombings as attacks against military targets.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An investigative report published on Tuesday (August 8) by a team of United Nations officials revealed that the war crimes committed by Myanmar's military have become "increasingly frequent and brazen".

An investigative report published on Tuesday (August 8) by a team of United Nations officials revealed that the war crimes committed by Myanmar's military have become "increasingly frequent and brazen". The war crimes include bombing civilians. On February 1, 2021, a coup d'état started in Myanmar when democratically elected members of the country's ruling party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), were deposed by the country's military. Aung San Suu Kyi was detained along with ministers and members of the parliament. Ever since Suu Kyi has been in custody and facing multiple charges. Also read: Exclusive | Taliban couldn’t silence her: This exiled Afghan journalist is changing lives, one story at a time Recently, Myanmar's ruling military pardoned Suu Kyi on five of the 19 offences, which means six years will be shaved off her 33-year jail term. The UN report, published by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), said there was "strong evidence that the Myanmar military and its affiliate militias have committed three types of combat-related war crimes with increasing frequency and brazenness". The report covered the period between July 2022 and June 2023. According to the report, these crimes include the indiscriminate or disproportionate targeting of civilians using bombs and the burning of civilian homes and buildings, resulting at times in the destruction of entire villages. The report also cited "killings of civilians or combatants detained during operations". Watch: Imran Khan's second innings in politics in the doldrums × Also read: Imran Khan ready to spend his life in prison, says his lawyer Nicholas Koumjian, head of the IIMM, said: "Our evidence points to a dramatic increase in war crimes and crimes against humanity in the country, with widespread and systematic attacks against civilians, and we are building case files that can be used by courts to hold individual perpetrators responsible." UN investigators said the Myanmar military "should have known or did know" that a large number of civilians were in or around the alleged targets when the attacks took place. But the junta has justified bombings as attacks against military targets. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN report says atrocities and war crimes by Myanmar's military 'more frequent and brazen'

In an assault that took place on April 11, 2023, in Myanmar's Pa Zi Gyi village,&nbsp;the military junta used&nbsp;helicopter gunships and fighter jets to rain down fire and bombs on a village festivity, asserting their intent to target "terrorists."

However, amidst the casualties on that day, marking the most lethal strike by junta forces against non-combatants since its takeover two years ago, numerous women and children lost their lives, including a child as young as six months old, reported the Washington Post.

April 11 marked the prelude to Thingyan, the revered Buddhist water festival that heralds the Myanmar New Year. As several hundred people joined in&nbsp;to enjoy breakfast at&nbsp;a social gathering&nbsp;for the inauguration of a public administration hall,&nbsp;little did they know that their lives were on the brink of an unimaginable upheaval.

<h2>Carnage erupts</h2>

In the midst of the festivities, an explosive event forever altered the landscape. A&nbsp;a military jet soared above, releasing a devastating blast that obliterated the newly constructed edifice and claimed numerous lives. Amid the chaos, a helicopter gunship descended, methodically attacking survivors, resulting in widespread devastation and loss of life.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/unintended-consequence-military-airstrikes-in-myanmar-signal-chinese-claws-sharpened-by-ukraine-war-582003">Unintended consequence: Military airstrikes in Myanmar signal Chinese claws sharpened by Ukraine war</a>

<h2>Heart-wrenching toll</h2>

The aftermath of the assault revealed a grim reality — at least 157 lives were lost, marking one of the deadliest acts by the Myanmar military since wresting control from a civilian government in 2021. Among the victims were a staggering 25 children, some mere infants.&nbsp;

<h2>Evidence and accusations</h2>

While the military acknowledged responsibility for the attack, its claims of&nbsp;targeting rebel forces were refuted by extensive evidence. Visual documentation provided exclusively to The Washington Post highlighted the appalling toll on innocent lives. The accounts of survivors and medics, as reported by The Washington Post, painted a grim picture of dismembered bodies, shattered families, and shattered dreams.

<h2>A weapon of destruction</h2>

Weapons experts analysed the evidence and suggested that a thermobaric bomb, drawing oxygen as fuel, was employed. The result was a catastrophic detonation that engulfed the site in carnage. This act underscored the junta's willingness to employ brutal force in its relentless pursuit of crushing opposition movements.

Also watch |&nbsp;Is China using new railway line to extend influence in Myanmar?

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<h2>The long road to justice</h2>

As survivors grappled with their trauma and grief, international entities like the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar have decried the attack as a war crime. The tragedy at Pa Zi Gyi serves as a chilling example of the indiscriminate violence inflicted upon civilians and the deliberate campaign to quash resistance.

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In an assault that took place on April 11, 2023, in Myanmar's Pa Zi Gyi village, the military junta used helicopter gunships and fighter jets to rain down fire and bombs on a village festivity, asserting their intent to target "terrorists.

In an assault that took place on April 11, 2023, in Myanmar's Pa Zi Gyi village, the military junta used helicopter gunships and fighter jets to rain down fire and bombs on a village festivity, asserting their intent to target "terrorists." However, amidst the casualties on that day, marking the most lethal strike by junta forces against non-combatants since its takeover two years ago, numerous women and children lost their lives, including a child as young as six months old, reported the Washington Post. April 11 marked the prelude to Thingyan, the revered Buddhist water festival that heralds the Myanmar New Year. As several hundred people joined in to enjoy breakfast at a social gathering for the inauguration of a public administration hall, little did they know that their lives were on the brink of an unimaginable upheaval. Carnage erupts In the midst of the festivities, an explosive event forever altered the landscape. A a military jet soared above, releasing a devastating blast that obliterated the newly constructed edifice and claimed numerous lives. Amid the chaos, a helicopter gunship descended, methodically attacking survivors, resulting in widespread devastation and loss of life. Also read | Unintended consequence: Military airstrikes in Myanmar signal Chinese claws sharpened by Ukraine war Heart-wrenching toll The aftermath of the assault revealed a grim reality — at least 157 lives were lost, marking one of the deadliest acts by the Myanmar military since wresting control from a civilian government in 2021. Among the victims were a staggering 25 children, some mere infants. Evidence and accusations While the military acknowledged responsibility for the attack, its claims of targeting rebel forces were refuted by extensive evidence. Visual documentation provided exclusively to The Washington Post highlighted the appalling toll on innocent lives. The accounts of survivors and medics, as reported by The Washington Post, painted a grim picture of dismembered bodies, shattered families, and shattered dreams. A weapon of destruction Weapons experts analysed the evidence and suggested that a thermobaric bomb, drawing oxygen as fuel, was employed. The result was a catastrophic detonation that engulfed the site in carnage. This act underscored the junta's willingness to employ brutal force in its relentless pursuit of crushing opposition movements. Also watch | Is China using new railway line to extend influence in Myanmar? The long road to justice As survivors grappled with their trauma and grief, international entities like the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar have decried the attack as a war crime. The tragedy at Pa Zi Gyi serves as a chilling example of the indiscriminate violence inflicted upon civilians and the deliberate campaign to quash resistance. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Myanmar junta airstrike targeted at 'terrorists' killed at least 25 children, including infants

Myanmar's Junta has announced the extension of State of Emergency in the country by six months. This will also cause a delay in the elections which the Junta had earlier promised to hold by August this year.

Myanmar: State of emergency extended by six months to delay elections | World News | WION

Myanmar's ruling junta has officially postponed an election promised by August this year after its 2021 coup, state television reported late on Monday.

Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing, in a meeting on Monday with the army-backed National Defence and Security Council (NDSC), extended a state of emergency by six more months.

The military had pledged to hold elections by August 2023 after it overthrew the elected government headed by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, but it cited ongoing violence as a reason to postpone the vote.

"While holding an election, in order to have an election that is free and fair and also to be able to vote without any fear, necessary security arrangements are still needed and so the period for the state of emergency is required to extend," read the junta statement on state TV.

Myanmar has been in chaos since the coup, with a resistance movement fighting the military on multiple fronts after a bloody crackdown on opponents that drew global condemnation and saw Western sanctions re-imposed.

The military seized power after complaining of fraud in a November 2020 general election won by Suu Kyi's party. Election monitoring groups found no evidence of mass fraud.

The overthrow of Suu Kyi's elected government derailed a decade of reform, international engagement and economic growth, while leaving a trail of upended lives in its wake.

In response to the junta's announcement, the U.S. State Department said extending the state of emergency would plunge the country "deeper into violence and instability".

"The regime's widespread brutality and disregard for the democratic aspirations of the people of Burma continue to prolong the crisis," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

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Myanmar's ruling junta has officially postponed an election promised by August this year after its 2021 coup, state television reported late on Monday. Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing, in a meeting on Monday with the army-backed National Defence and Security Council (NDSC), extended a state of emergency by six more months.

Myanmar's ruling junta has officially postponed an election promised by August this year after its 2021 coup, state television reported late on Monday. Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing, in a meeting on Monday with the army-backed National Defence and Security Council (NDSC), extended a state of emergency by six more months. The military had pledged to hold elections by August 2023 after it overthrew the elected government headed by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, but it cited ongoing violence as a reason to postpone the vote. "While holding an election, in order to have an election that is free and fair and also to be able to vote without any fear, necessary security arrangements are still needed and so the period for the state of emergency is required to extend," read the junta statement on state TV. Myanmar has been in chaos since the coup, with a resistance movement fighting the military on multiple fronts after a bloody crackdown on opponents that drew global condemnation and saw Western sanctions re-imposed. The military seized power after complaining of fraud in a November 2020 general election won by Suu Kyi's party. Election monitoring groups found no evidence of mass fraud. The overthrow of Suu Kyi's elected government derailed a decade of reform, international engagement and economic growth, while leaving a trail of upended lives in its wake. In response to the junta's announcement, the U.S. State Department said extending the state of emergency would plunge the country "deeper into violence and instability". "The regime's widespread brutality and disregard for the democratic aspirations of the people of Burma continue to prolong the crisis," said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Myanmar junta officially postpones election promised after 2021 coup

Days after Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi was moved from jail to house arrest, state media reports on Tuesday (Aug 1) said she has been pardoned in five criminal cases in a junta amnesty.&nbsp;According to a junta spokesperson, Suu Kyi's sentence has been reduced by six years in total after the partial clemency.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi was arrested two years ago in a daytime coup, after which the military junta took over the reins of the nation.

"Chairman of State Administration Council pardons Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who was sentenced by the relevant courts," a state media report said.

While Suu Kyi received amnesty in five cases, she still faces legal troubles in 14 others.&nbsp;Sources told AFP news agency that despite the clemency, Suu Kyi will not be freed from house arrest.&nbsp;

"She couldn't be freed completely although some sentences against her were pardoned. She still has to face 14 cases. Only five cases out of 19 were pardoned."

<h2>Reason for clemency?</h2>

The junta clemency is part of a religious ceremony, due to be held this week&nbsp;(August 3).&nbsp;The military has built a new giant sitting Buddha statue, as a symbol of devotion and will open it to the public on August 3. Apart from Suu Kyi, more than 7,000 prisoners have been granted amnesty as well.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-abysmal-state-of-armed-conflict-insurgency-chaos-anarchy-details-604681">WATCH |&nbsp;Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos &amp; anarchy | Details</a>

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Up until last week, the 78-year-old Nobel laureate was lodged in a prison in the capital city of&nbsp;Naypyitaw.&nbsp;Suu Kyi had been sentenced to 33 years in prison after a range of charges were brought by the army. Most of the charges, experts argue, have been brought in to keep her away from garnering public support. Her party had won a second five-year mandate in the 2020 elections before the military came calling.&nbsp;

The news of Suu Kyi's transfer had been doing the rounds ever since&nbsp;Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai met her in prison.&nbsp;Pramudwinai became the first foreign visitor to be granted access to meet her after she was arrested. However, the news of her clemency has come as a surprise to many, given the junta's heavy-handedness in dealing with its detractors.&nbsp;

More than 3,700 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group. Meanwhile, more than 23,000 have been arrested during the same period.&nbsp;

<h2>Suu Kyi's change in stance</h2>

Suu Kyi, known for her&nbsp;non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights has implemented a change in stance since being detained, which some argue, might have been the reason for the clemency.&nbsp;

The country's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), formed out of the ashes of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD), has established the People's Defence Force (PDF) which is responsible for training civilians to fight alongside established ethnic armed groups. The junta has faced some&nbsp;setbacks in the last few months at the hands of NUG.&nbsp;

Last month, a vehicle carrying Chinese military personnel was attacked by an armed ethnic group, according to the Myanmar junta.&nbsp;The Chinese convoy was travelling to a meeting on border security when the alleged attacks took place. According to the junta, the armed group&nbsp;Kachin Independence Army) (KIA), which belongs to NUG, carried the attacks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Days after Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi was moved from jail to house arrest, state media reports on Tuesday (Aug 1) said she has been pardoned in five criminal cases in a junta amnesty.

Days after Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi was moved from jail to house arrest, state media reports on Tuesday (Aug 1) said she has been pardoned in five criminal cases in a junta amnesty. According to a junta spokesperson, Suu Kyi's sentence has been reduced by six years in total after the partial clemency. Suu Kyi was arrested two years ago in a daytime coup, after which the military junta took over the reins of the nation. "Chairman of State Administration Council pardons Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who was sentenced by the relevant courts," a state media report said. While Suu Kyi received amnesty in five cases, she still faces legal troubles in 14 others. Sources told AFP news agency that despite the clemency, Suu Kyi will not be freed from house arrest. "She couldn't be freed completely although some sentences against her were pardoned. She still has to face 14 cases. Only five cases out of 19 were pardoned." Reason for clemency? The junta clemency is part of a religious ceremony, due to be held this week (August 3). The military has built a new giant sitting Buddha statue, as a symbol of devotion and will open it to the public on August 3. Apart from Suu Kyi, more than 7,000 prisoners have been granted amnesty as well. WATCH | Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos & anarchy | Details Up until last week, the 78-year-old Nobel laureate was lodged in a prison in the capital city of Naypyitaw. Suu Kyi had been sentenced to 33 years in prison after a range of charges were brought by the army. Most of the charges, experts argue, have been brought in to keep her away from garnering public support. Her party had won a second five-year mandate in the 2020 elections before the military came calling. The news of Suu Kyi's transfer had been doing the rounds ever since Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai met her in prison. Pramudwinai became the first foreign visitor to be granted access to meet her after she was arrested. However, the news of her clemency has come as a surprise to many, given the junta's heavy-handedness in dealing with its detractors. More than 3,700 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group. Meanwhile, more than 23,000 have been arrested during the same period. Suu Kyi's change in stance Suu Kyi, known for her non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights has implemented a change in stance since being detained, which some argue, might have been the reason for the clemency. The country's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), formed out of the ashes of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD), has established the People's Defence Force (PDF) which is responsible for training civilians to fight alongside established ethnic armed groups. The junta has faced some setbacks in the last few months at the hands of NUG. Last month, a vehicle carrying Chinese military personnel was attacked by an armed ethnic group, according to the Myanmar junta. The Chinese convoy was travelling to a meeting on border security when the alleged attacks took place. According to the junta, the armed group Kachin Independence Army) (KIA), which belongs to NUG, carried the attacks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi pardoned in some cases

Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi who was in detention since 2021 military coup has now been pardoned according to the state media.

Myanmar Junta pardons Aung San Suu Kyi in five criminal cases

Myanmar's ousted civilian leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been under military detention since the coup in February 2021, has been transferred to house arrest.

Citing "prison sources" BBC reports that on Monday, she was taken to a government building in Nay Pyi Taw, after spending a year in solitary confinement.

<h2>From prison to house arrest</h2>

While the military has not officially confirmed her transfer from prison to house arrest, this move, as per BBC, could signal a positive sign from the authorities. This comes as international pressure and appeals consistently urge for the release of Myanmar's democratically elected leader.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-military-planning-to-transfer-aung-san-suu-kyi-to-house-arrest-reports-619471">Myanmar military planning to transfer Aung San Suu Kyi to house arrest: Reports</a>

The 78-years-old Aung San Suu Kyi is currently serving a 33-year sentence after being jailed in closed-door, military-controlled trials widely denounced as fraudulent across the globe.

For more than two years, there has been minimal to no information about the Nobel laureate's condition, and recently rumours of her being unwell have been floating.

<h2>Is Suu Kyi sick?</h2>

Even as rumours suggesting that the National League for Democracy leader might be unwell spread, the Junta repeatedly refuted these reports.&nbsp;

As per the BBC report, a source from Nay Pyi Taw prison, where she was being held, informed BBC Burmese earlier this week that the deposed leader was in good health.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Thailand's foreign minister Don Pramudwinai also revealed that he had visited Aung San Suu Kyi.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/6000-myanmar-civilians-killed-in-20-months-post-coup-report-603974" target="_blank">6,000 Myanmar civilians killed in 20 months post coup: Report</a>

Reuters reports that the minister&nbsp;—&nbsp;who also happens to be the first foreign official to be granted access to the Nobel laureate since her detention by the military two years ago — said that Suu&nbsp;Kyi was in good health and that she also supported dialogue to help resolve the crisis in Myanmar.

"(The meeting) is an approach of the friends of Myanmar, who would like to see a peaceful settlement," he told reporters.

The military leaders, as per reports, have set-up a meeting between Aung San Suu Kyi and T Khun Myat, the Speaker of the lower house of Myanmar parliament. However, this meeting is yet to be&nbsp;confirmed by the military.

<h2>Myanmar since the coup</h2>

Since the 2021 coup, the country has descended into a civil war, which has till date resulted in the loss of thousands of lives. Even international sanctions imposed on the military regime have failed to halt the escalating violence.&nbsp;Suu Kyi has been found guilty of over a dozen crimes, including incitement, election fraud, corruption, and violating a state secret law.

Myanmar's ousted civilian leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been under military detention since the coup in February 2021, has been transferred to house arrest. Citing "prison sources" BBC reports that on Monday, she was taken to a government building in Nay Pyi Taw, after spending a year in solitary confinement.

Myanmar's ousted civilian leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been under military detention since the coup in February 2021, has been transferred to house arrest. Citing "prison sources" BBC reports that on Monday, she was taken to a government building in Nay Pyi Taw, after spending a year in solitary confinement. From prison to house arrest While the military has not officially confirmed her transfer from prison to house arrest, this move, as per BBC, could signal a positive sign from the authorities. This comes as international pressure and appeals consistently urge for the release of Myanmar's democratically elected leader. Also read | Myanmar military planning to transfer Aung San Suu Kyi to house arrest: Reports The 78-years-old Aung San Suu Kyi is currently serving a 33-year sentence after being jailed in closed-door, military-controlled trials widely denounced as fraudulent across the globe. For more than two years, there has been minimal to no information about the Nobel laureate's condition, and recently rumours of her being unwell have been floating. Is Suu Kyi sick? Even as rumours suggesting that the National League for Democracy leader might be unwell spread, the Junta repeatedly refuted these reports. As per the BBC report, a source from Nay Pyi Taw prison, where she was being held, informed BBC Burmese earlier this week that the deposed leader was in good health. Earlier this month, Thailand's foreign minister Don Pramudwinai also revealed that he had visited Aung San Suu Kyi. Also read | 6,000 Myanmar civilians killed in 20 months post coup: Report Reuters reports that the minister — who also happens to be the first foreign official to be granted access to the Nobel laureate since her detention by the military two years ago — said that Suu Kyi was in good health and that she also supported dialogue to help resolve the crisis in Myanmar. "(The meeting) is an approach of the friends of Myanmar, who would like to see a peaceful settlement," he told reporters. The military leaders, as per reports, have set-up a meeting between Aung San Suu Kyi and T Khun Myat, the Speaker of the lower house of Myanmar parliament. However, this meeting is yet to be confirmed by the military. Myanmar since the coup Since the 2021 coup, the country has descended into a civil war, which has till date resulted in the loss of thousands of lives. Even international sanctions imposed on the military regime have failed to halt the escalating violence. Suu Kyi has been found guilty of over a dozen crimes, including incitement, election fraud, corruption, and violating a state secret law.

Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi moved from jail to house arrest amidst ongoing crisis

The Myanmar military is planning to transfer ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi from prison to house arrest, according to a Reuters report.&nbsp;Suu Kyi has been in detention since the military removed her&nbsp;democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD) in 2021 in a coup.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi is currently lodged in a prison in the capital city of Naypyitaw. A top official, speaking on condition of anonymity told The Associated Press that the military government was planning to announce Suu Kyi's release soon.

Reports state the move is an act of clemency to prisoners as part of a religious ceremony, due to be held next week. The military has built a new giant sitting Buddha statue, as a symbol of devotion and will open it to the public on August 3.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi has been sentenced to 33 years in prison after a range of charges were brought by the army. Most of the charges, experts argue, have been brought in to keep her away from garnering public support. Her party had won a second five-year mandate in the 2020 elections before the military came calling,&nbsp;

The news of Suu Kyi's transfer has been doing the rounds ever since&nbsp;Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai met her in prison.&nbsp;Pramudwinai became the first foreign visitor to be granted access to meet her after she was arrested.&nbsp;

<h2>Change in stance for Suu Kyi</h2>

The 78-year-old Nobel laureate, known for her non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights has implemented a change in stance since being detained.&nbsp;The country's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), formed out of the ashes of NLD, has established the People's Defence Force (PDF) which is responsible for training civilians to fight alongside established ethnic armed groups. Armed ethnic minority groups such as the Karenni, the Karen and the Kachin are part of this group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-abysmal-state-of-armed-conflict-insurgency-chaos-anarchy-details-604681">WATCH |&nbsp;Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos &amp; anarchy | Details</a>

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More than 3,700 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group. Meanwhile, more than 23,000 have been arrested during the same period.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/6000-myanmar-civilians-killed-in-20-months-post-coup-report-603974" target="_blank">Also read | 6,000 Myanmar civilians killed in 20 months post coup: Report</a>

Earlier this month, a vehicle carrying Chinese military personnel was attacked by an armed ethnic group, according to the Myanmar junta.&nbsp;The Chinese convoy was travelling to a meeting on border security when the alleged attacks took place.&nbsp;

"We can confirm that (Kachin Independence Army) (KIA) members attacked the convoy," junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Myanmar military is planning to transfer ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi from prison to house arrest, according to a Reuters report. Suu Kyi has been in detention since the military removed her democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD) in 2021 in a coup.

The Myanmar military is planning to transfer ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi from prison to house arrest, according to a Reuters report. Suu Kyi has been in detention since the military removed her democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD) in 2021 in a coup. Suu Kyi is currently lodged in a prison in the capital city of Naypyitaw. A top official, speaking on condition of anonymity told The Associated Press that the military government was planning to announce Suu Kyi's release soon. Reports state the move is an act of clemency to prisoners as part of a religious ceremony, due to be held next week. The military has built a new giant sitting Buddha statue, as a symbol of devotion and will open it to the public on August 3. Suu Kyi has been sentenced to 33 years in prison after a range of charges were brought by the army. Most of the charges, experts argue, have been brought in to keep her away from garnering public support. Her party had won a second five-year mandate in the 2020 elections before the military came calling, The news of Suu Kyi's transfer has been doing the rounds ever since Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai met her in prison. Pramudwinai became the first foreign visitor to be granted access to meet her after she was arrested. Change in stance for Suu Kyi The 78-year-old Nobel laureate, known for her non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights has implemented a change in stance since being detained. The country's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), formed out of the ashes of NLD, has established the People's Defence Force (PDF) which is responsible for training civilians to fight alongside established ethnic armed groups. Armed ethnic minority groups such as the Karenni, the Karen and the Kachin are part of this group. WATCH | Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos & anarchy | Details × More than 3,700 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group. Meanwhile, more than 23,000 have been arrested during the same period. Also read | 6,000 Myanmar civilians killed in 20 months post coup: Report Earlier this month, a vehicle carrying Chinese military personnel was attacked by an armed ethnic group, according to the Myanmar junta. The Chinese convoy was travelling to a meeting on border security when the alleged attacks took place. "We can confirm that (Kachin Independence Army) (KIA) members attacked the convoy," junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun was quoted as saying by AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Myanmar military planning to transfer Aung San Suu Kyi to house arrest: Reports

Myanmar's junta chief hinted the military may further extend a state of emergency and delay promised elections in comments published Friday, saying greater efforts were needed to end unrest.&nbsp;

The Southeast Asian pariah nation has been ravaged by deadly violence since a coup deposed Aung San Suu Kyi's government more than two years ago, unleashing a bloody crackdown on dissent.

Thousands of civilians have been killed and injured as the junta battles a clutch of new and established rebel groups opposed to military rule.&nbsp;

Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing's administration has extended the state of emergency it imposed during the coup multiple times after giving acknowledgements of continuing unrest.&nbsp;

On Thursday, he told a meeting of senior officials that "events of terrorism declined but continued to occur" in Myanmar, in reference to ongoing attacks by anti-coup resistance forces.

"Many requirements can be seen in implementation of fully emphasizing the security, peace and stability and rule of law," he said, according to a Friday military statement outlining the meeting.

More than 782 people had been killed in hundreds of "terror acts" since the start of the year, he added, without giving further details.&nbsp;

Myanmar's military-drafted 2008 constitution, which the junta has said is still in force, requires authorities to hold fresh elections within six months of a state of emergency being lifted.&nbsp;

The junta had promised fresh elections in August of this year but in February it again extended the emergency ordinance, a day after its National Defence and Security Council said the situation in the country had "not returned to normalcy yet".

After her government was deposed, Suu Kyi, 78, was convicted in a series of trials that rights groups slammed as a sham, and sentenced to 33 years in prison.

Thailand's foreign minister said Wednesday that he met with Suu Kyi last week, her first known meeting with a foreign envoy since the 2021 coup.&nbsp; 
 
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Myanmar's junta chief hinted the military may further extend a state of emergency and delay promised elections in comments published Friday, saying greater efforts were needed to end unrest.

Myanmar's junta chief hinted the military may further extend a state of emergency and delay promised elections in comments published Friday, saying greater efforts were needed to end unrest. The Southeast Asian pariah nation has been ravaged by deadly violence since a coup deposed Aung San Suu Kyi's government more than two years ago, unleashing a bloody crackdown on dissent. Thousands of civilians have been killed and injured as the junta battles a clutch of new and established rebel groups opposed to military rule. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing's administration has extended the state of emergency it imposed during the coup multiple times after giving acknowledgements of continuing unrest. On Thursday, he told a meeting of senior officials that "events of terrorism declined but continued to occur" in Myanmar, in reference to ongoing attacks by anti-coup resistance forces. "Many requirements can be seen in implementation of fully emphasizing the security, peace and stability and rule of law," he said, according to a Friday military statement outlining the meeting. More than 782 people had been killed in hundreds of "terror acts" since the start of the year, he added, without giving further details. Myanmar's military-drafted 2008 constitution, which the junta has said is still in force, requires authorities to hold fresh elections within six months of a state of emergency being lifted. The junta had promised fresh elections in August of this year but in February it again extended the emergency ordinance, a day after its National Defence and Security Council said the situation in the country had "not returned to normalcy yet". After her government was deposed, Suu Kyi, 78, was convicted in a series of trials that rights groups slammed as a sham, and sentenced to 33 years in prison. Thailand's foreign minister said Wednesday that he met with Suu Kyi last week, her first known meeting with a foreign envoy since the 2021 coup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar junta hints at extending state of emergency, delaying promised elections

An armed ethnic group has been accused of attacking a vehicle convoy carrying Chinese military personnel, according to the Myanmar junta on Saturday. The Chinese convoy was travelling to a meeting on border security when the alleged attacks took place.&nbsp;

"We can confirm that (Kachin Independence Army) (KIA) members attacked the convoy," junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;

The vehicle carrying&nbsp;Chinese military representatives and Myanmar counterparts was on its way to&nbsp;Myitkyina in northern Kachin state when it came under heavy fire. According to the junta, a vehicle, second in line was shot five times but fortunately, no one was wounded or killed.&nbsp;

The rebels (KIA) have denied the claims.&nbsp;"KIA did not attack any&nbsp;convoy," KIA colonel Naw Bu told AFP.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-26-including-six-children-killed-in-fresh-fighting-between-army-and-resistance-fighters-604760">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar: At least 26, including six children, killed in fresh fighting between army and resistance fighters</a>

<h2>Not the first attack on the Chinese</h2>

Notably, this is not the first time that anti-junta rebels have attacked a Chinese convoy or China-funded projects. In May, days after the Chinese foreign minister visited the war-torn country, another resistance group named Natogyi Guerrilla Force (NGF) attacked the China-built oil and gas pipeline in the Mandalay region.&nbsp;

The 973-km pipeline runs from the Rakhine coast to southern China and was constructed in 2011 and began operations in July 2013. It&nbsp;passes through Magwe, Mandalay regions, and Shan state to China's Yunnan province.

Following the Chinese FM visit, anti-Chinese protests were held across Myanmar with some protesters burning the Chinese flag.&nbsp;

Notably, Beijing is one of the most prominent investors in Myanmar, especially in the mines, oil and gas pipelines, and infrastructure projects, which gives it access to the Indian Ocean.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-abysmal-state-of-armed-conflict-insurgency-chaos-anarchy-details-604681">WATCH |&nbsp;Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos &amp; anarchy | Details</a>

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<h2>Myanmar in perennial chaos</h2>

Since the military removed Myanmar’s democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD) in 2021 and overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi, the top leader has been forced to change her position on non-violence.

The country's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), formed out of the ashes of NLD, has established the People's Defence Force (PDF) which is responsible for training civilians to fight alongside established ethnic armed groups. Armed ethnic minority groups such as the Karenni, the Karen and the Kachin are part of this group.&nbsp;

More than 3,700 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group. Meanwhile, more than 23,000 have been arrested during the same period.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An armed ethnic group has been accused of attacking a vehicle convoy carrying Chinese military personnel, according to the Myanmar junta on Saturday. The Chinese convoy was travelling to a meeting on border security when the alleged attacks took place.

An armed ethnic group has been accused of attacking a vehicle convoy carrying Chinese military personnel, according to the Myanmar junta on Saturday. The Chinese convoy was travelling to a meeting on border security when the alleged attacks took place. "We can confirm that (Kachin Independence Army) (KIA) members attacked the convoy," junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun was quoted as saying by AFP. The vehicle carrying Chinese military representatives and Myanmar counterparts was on its way to Myitkyina in northern Kachin state when it came under heavy fire. According to the junta, a vehicle, second in line was shot five times but fortunately, no one was wounded or killed. The rebels (KIA) have denied the claims. "KIA did not attack any convoy," KIA colonel Naw Bu told AFP. Also read | Myanmar: At least 26, including six children, killed in fresh fighting between army and resistance fighters Not the first attack on the Chinese Notably, this is not the first time that anti-junta rebels have attacked a Chinese convoy or China-funded projects. In May, days after the Chinese foreign minister visited the war-torn country, another resistance group named Natogyi Guerrilla Force (NGF) attacked the China-built oil and gas pipeline in the Mandalay region. The 973-km pipeline runs from the Rakhine coast to southern China and was constructed in 2011 and began operations in July 2013. It passes through Magwe, Mandalay regions, and Shan state to China's Yunnan province. Following the Chinese FM visit, anti-Chinese protests were held across Myanmar with some protesters burning the Chinese flag. Notably, Beijing is one of the most prominent investors in Myanmar, especially in the mines, oil and gas pipelines, and infrastructure projects, which gives it access to the Indian Ocean. WATCH | Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos & anarchy | Details × Myanmar in perennial chaos Since the military removed Myanmar’s democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD) in 2021 and overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi, the top leader has been forced to change her position on non-violence. The country's parallel National Unity Government (NUG), formed out of the ashes of NLD, has established the People's Defence Force (PDF) which is responsible for training civilians to fight alongside established ethnic armed groups. Armed ethnic minority groups such as the Karenni, the Karen and the Kachin are part of this group. More than 3,700 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group. Meanwhile, more than 23,000 have been arrested during the same period. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chinese military convoy attacked by rebels in Myanmar, claims junta

Fierce fighting between Myanmar’s army & resistance fighters has reportedly killed at least 26 civilians, including 6 kids, in an area east of the capital. The fighting took place in Shan state’s Pekon township. It is a hotly contested area in the armed struggle that arose in 2021, when the army seized power from the elected govt of Aung San Suu Kyi. The 2021 army takeover prompted widespread public protests.

Myanmar: Abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos & anarchy | Details

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

Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority. In a statement, the junta said that out of the 145 dead, 24 were locals, four were soldiers and the rest 117 were "Bengalis" — a pejorative term for the Rohingya.

"Altogether 145 local people were killed during the cyclone," said the authorities in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Media reports of higher Rohingya death toll "not true"</h2>

The junta statement also said that media reports of around 400 Rohingya dead were "not true". As per the statement, action would be taken against the outlets that publish the number.

Since it ousted the elected government more than two years ago, the junta, as per AFP, has arrested scores of journalists and has closed outlets deemed critical of its rule.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/in-myanmars-rakhine-locals-say-hundreds-have-died-due-to-cyclone-mocha-official-figures-claim-only-3-dead-593071">In Myanmar's Rakhine, locals say hundreds have died due to Cyclone Mocha; official figures claim only 3 dead</a>

<h2>United Nations on Cyclone Mocha's damage to Myanmar</h2>

On Friday, the United Nations in a statement said that at least 800,000 people in Myanmar have been affected by Cyclone Mocha.

It said that the affected people need emergency food aid and other assistance.

According to Anthea Webb, the UN World Food Programme's deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific, the cyclone caused extensive damage in Myanmar's Rakhine State, with massive destruction to homes, roads, hospitals, schools, and telecommunications and power lines.

"There are at least 800,000 people in urgent need of emergency food assistance," said Webb,&nbsp;adding that "greater needs for food, shelter, water, health and other humanitarian aid are expected to be revealed as we reach more areas."

<h2>International aid</h2>

AFP reports that a few international aid groups, including the United Nations World Food Programme, have been working on the ground in Sittwe.

However, a junta spokesperson remained silent about whether UN agencies would be granted access to displacement camps outside Sittwe that house Rohingya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cylcone-mocha-indian-navy-rushes-to-help-battered-myanmar-593724">Cyclone Mocha: Indian Navy ships rush relief material to battered Myanmar, many feared dead</a>

Myanmar state media on Tuesday reported that "offers from the international community for providing aid have been accepted."

"But relief and rehabilitation tasks must be done through existing united strength," added the Global New Light of Myanmar.

<h2>Cyclone Mocha and the damage it did to Myanmar</h2>

On Sunday, the cyclone brought lashing rain and winds of 195 kilometres per hour (120 miles per hour) to Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The high-speed winds collapsed buildings, turned streets into rivers, uprooted trees and also knocked out communications across much of Myanmar's Rakhine state, which is home to hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees who following decades of ethnic conflict, have been living there in displacement camps.

<h2>The Rohingyas</h2>

In Myanmar, Rohingyas are widely viewed as interlopers from Bangladesh. As per AFP, they are denied citizenship and access to health care in the country. To travel outside of the townships, they require permission.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority.

Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority. In a statement, the junta said that out of the 145 dead, 24 were locals, four were soldiers and the rest 117 were "Bengalis" — a pejorative term for the Rohingya. "Altogether 145 local people were killed during the cyclone," said the authorities in a statement. Media reports of higher Rohingya death toll "not true" The junta statement also said that media reports of around 400 Rohingya dead were "not true". As per the statement, action would be taken against the outlets that publish the number. Since it ousted the elected government more than two years ago, the junta, as per AFP, has arrested scores of journalists and has closed outlets deemed critical of its rule. Also read | In Myanmar's Rakhine, locals say hundreds have died due to Cyclone Mocha; official figures claim only 3 dead United Nations on Cyclone Mocha's damage to Myanmar On Friday, the United Nations in a statement said that at least 800,000 people in Myanmar have been affected by Cyclone Mocha. It said that the affected people need emergency food aid and other assistance. According to Anthea Webb, the UN World Food Programme's deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific, the cyclone caused extensive damage in Myanmar's Rakhine State, with massive destruction to homes, roads, hospitals, schools, and telecommunications and power lines. "There are at least 800,000 people in urgent need of emergency food assistance," said Webb, adding that "greater needs for food, shelter, water, health and other humanitarian aid are expected to be revealed as we reach more areas." International aid AFP reports that a few international aid groups, including the United Nations World Food Programme, have been working on the ground in Sittwe. However, a junta spokesperson remained silent about whether UN agencies would be granted access to displacement camps outside Sittwe that house Rohingya. Also read | Cyclone Mocha: Indian Navy ships rush relief material to battered Myanmar, many feared dead Myanmar state media on Tuesday reported that "offers from the international community for providing aid have been accepted." "But relief and rehabilitation tasks must be done through existing united strength," added the Global New Light of Myanmar. Cyclone Mocha and the damage it did to Myanmar On Sunday, the cyclone brought lashing rain and winds of 195 kilometres per hour (120 miles per hour) to Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh. The high-speed winds collapsed buildings, turned streets into rivers, uprooted trees and also knocked out communications across much of Myanmar's Rakhine state, which is home to hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees who following decades of ethnic conflict, have been living there in displacement camps. The Rohingyas In Myanmar, Rohingyas are widely viewed as interlopers from Bangladesh. As per AFP, they are denied citizenship and access to health care in the country. To travel outside of the townships, they require permission. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cyclone Mocha: Myanmar Junta says reports of 400 Rohingya dead 'not true,' claims toll at 145

A statement released by Myanmar's junta on Wednesday (May 3) revealed that it had pardoned 2,153 prisoners. The statement mentioned that they were jailed under a law that criminalises encouraging dissent against the military and carries a maximum three-year jail term. Junta has used the same law to crack down on dissent since it seized power in February 2021.

The junta in a statement noted that the military pardoned "2,153 prisoners serving sentences under Penal Code 505 (a) to mark Kasone Full Moon Day".&nbsp;

The statement said that the military ordered the pardons "for the peaceful mind of the people and on humanitarian grounds" and further added that those who re-offend will have to serve the remainder of their sentence. There will be an additional penalty.&nbsp;

The Myanmar junta seized power in the country on February 1, 2021, through a coup. India, in view of the cross-border issues, has retained ties with the junta-led South Asian nation. However, many countries have condemned the junta and called for a return to democracy.&nbsp;

After seizing power and ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government, more than 21,000 people have been arrested. The crisis has plunged the country into turmoil, according to a local monitoring group. The United Nations stated that at least 170 journalists have been arrested.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi is still in jail since she was detained in the early hours of the coup. Last year in December, the junta wrapped up a series of trials and jailed her for a total of 33 years.&nbsp;

Apart from the arrest, the monitoring group claimed that more than 3,400 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup.&nbsp;

The junta has been accused of committing human rights abuses, including violence against peaceful protesters, arbitrary detentions, and the use of lethal force against civilians.&nbsp;

<h2>Chinese minister visits Myanmar</h2>

The latest decision about pardoning the prisoners comes as the Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang is visiting Myanmar for talks with the internationally isolated generals and met junta chief Min Aung Hlaing. Qin became the highest-profile Chinese official to meet the top general since the coup.&nbsp;

According to the Chinese foreign ministry, Qin said, "China advocates that the international community should respect Myanmar's sovereignty and play a constructive role in helping it achieve peace and reconciliation." Recently, several Beijing-backed infrastructure projects are slated to run through northern Myanmar and link China's landlocked Yunnan province with the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A statement released by Myanmar's junta on Wednesday (May 3) revealed that it had pardoned 2,153 prisoners. The statement mentioned that they were jailed under a law that criminalises encouraging dissent against the military and carries a maximum three-year jail term.

A statement released by Myanmar's junta on Wednesday (May 3) revealed that it had pardoned 2,153 prisoners. The statement mentioned that they were jailed under a law that criminalises encouraging dissent against the military and carries a maximum three-year jail term. Junta has used the same law to crack down on dissent since it seized power in February 2021. The junta in a statement noted that the military pardoned "2,153 prisoners serving sentences under Penal Code 505 (a) to mark Kasone Full Moon Day". The statement said that the military ordered the pardons "for the peaceful mind of the people and on humanitarian grounds" and further added that those who re-offend will have to serve the remainder of their sentence. There will be an additional penalty. The Myanmar junta seized power in the country on February 1, 2021, through a coup. India, in view of the cross-border issues, has retained ties with the junta-led South Asian nation. However, many countries have condemned the junta and called for a return to democracy. After seizing power and ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government, more than 21,000 people have been arrested. The crisis has plunged the country into turmoil, according to a local monitoring group. The United Nations stated that at least 170 journalists have been arrested. Suu Kyi is still in jail since she was detained in the early hours of the coup. Last year in December, the junta wrapped up a series of trials and jailed her for a total of 33 years. Apart from the arrest, the monitoring group claimed that more than 3,400 people have been killed in the military's crackdown on dissent since the coup. The junta has been accused of committing human rights abuses, including violence against peaceful protesters, arbitrary detentions, and the use of lethal force against civilians. Chinese minister visits Myanmar The latest decision about pardoning the prisoners comes as the Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang is visiting Myanmar for talks with the internationally isolated generals and met junta chief Min Aung Hlaing. Qin became the highest-profile Chinese official to meet the top general since the coup. According to the Chinese foreign ministry, Qin said, "China advocates that the international community should respect Myanmar's sovereignty and play a constructive role in helping it achieve peace and reconciliation." Recently, several Beijing-backed infrastructure projects are slated to run through northern Myanmar and link China's landlocked Yunnan province with the Indian Ocean. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar junta pardons 2,153 prisoners jailed for dissent against military

IN PICS | Myanmar junta releases over 3,000 prisoners in Buddhist New Year amnesty

Myanmar junta confirmed and justified the airstrike carried out on a village, which killed at least 100 people, on Wednesday, becoming one of the deadliest attacks by the military after seizing power in a coup two years ago.&nbsp;

CNN in its report highlighted the horrific story after the deadly strikes as it mentioned that the relatives were still recovering the charred bodies and limbs of victims.&nbsp;

The US-based media outlet reported that it was a horrific scene at the site of the military airstrike. The witness said that he hid in a tunnel during the attack. While describing the scene, he said that children were dying, women were screaming, and bodies were piled up on the ground.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/unintended-consequence-military-airstrikes-in-myanmar-signal-chinese-claws-sharpened-by-ukraine-war-582003">Unintended consequence: Military airstrikes in Myanmar signal Chinese claws sharpened by Ukraine war</a>&nbsp;

Another witness, a villager involved in rescue and recovery efforts at Pazi Gyi village, said that the body parts had been strewn across the site of the attack, AFP reported. The villager asked not to be named for safety concerns.&nbsp;

The villager told AFP it was difficult to identify the dead.&nbsp;"We can not identify anymore who is who among the dead because they are all pieces," he said.&nbsp;

WATCH | At least&nbsp;100 feared killed by airstrike in Myanmar : Reports&nbsp;

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Media reports claimed that the strikes were carried out in the remote Kanbalu township in the central Sagaing region. However, the official death toll still remains unclear.&nbsp;

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) strongly condemned air strikes. The group has faced criticism for not doing enough to solve the deepening Myanmar crisis.&nbsp;

The chair of Indonesia said in a statement: "All forms of violence must end immediately, particularly the use of force against civilians. This would be the only way to create a conducive environment for an inclusive national dialogue to find a sustainable peaceful solution in Myanmar."&nbsp;

France has also condemned the incident calling it an "abominable" airstrike on a village by the Myanmar air force. French foreign ministry said in a statement that the strike demonstrated "the strategy of indiscriminate violence the Myanmar junta has inflicted on Myanmar's people for more than two years". The ministry further added that Paris "continues to stand resolutely at the side of the people of Myanmar".&nbsp;

According to a local monitoring group, the Myanmar military's crackdown on dissent and armed groups opposed to their rule has left more than 3,200 people dead. The crackdown began after a coup that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in 2021.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Myanmar junta confirmed and justified the airstrike carried out on a village, which killed at least 100 people, on Wednesday, becoming one of the deadliest attacks by the military after seizing power in a coup two years ago.

Myanmar junta confirmed and justified the airstrike carried out on a village, which killed at least 100 people, on Wednesday, becoming one of the deadliest attacks by the military after seizing power in a coup two years ago. CNN in its report highlighted the horrific story after the deadly strikes as it mentioned that the relatives were still recovering the charred bodies and limbs of victims. The US-based media outlet reported that it was a horrific scene at the site of the military airstrike. The witness said that he hid in a tunnel during the attack. While describing the scene, he said that children were dying, women were screaming, and bodies were piled up on the ground. ALSO READ | Unintended consequence: Military airstrikes in Myanmar signal Chinese claws sharpened by Ukraine war Another witness, a villager involved in rescue and recovery efforts at Pazi Gyi village, said that the body parts had been strewn across the site of the attack, AFP reported. The villager asked not to be named for safety concerns. The villager told AFP it was difficult to identify the dead. "We can not identify anymore who is who among the dead because they are all pieces," he said. WATCH | At least 100 feared killed by airstrike in Myanmar : Reports × Media reports claimed that the strikes were carried out in the remote Kanbalu township in the central Sagaing region. However, the official death toll still remains unclear. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) strongly condemned air strikes. The group has faced criticism for not doing enough to solve the deepening Myanmar crisis. The chair of Indonesia said in a statement: "All forms of violence must end immediately, particularly the use of force against civilians. This would be the only way to create a conducive environment for an inclusive national dialogue to find a sustainable peaceful solution in Myanmar." France has also condemned the incident calling it an "abominable" airstrike on a village by the Myanmar air force. French foreign ministry said in a statement that the strike demonstrated "the strategy of indiscriminate violence the Myanmar junta has inflicted on Myanmar's people for more than two years". The ministry further added that Paris "continues to stand resolutely at the side of the people of Myanmar". According to a local monitoring group, the Myanmar military's crackdown on dissent and armed groups opposed to their rule has left more than 3,200 people dead. The crackdown began after a coup that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in 2021. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar junta's airstrikes kill at least 100, leave town with screaming people and body parts everywhere

Dozens of people in central Myanmar were killed in air strikes on Tuesday. Myanmar's ruling junta confirmed that it carried out an airstrike on a village. UN & western powers condemned the attacks & demanded accountability. The south-east Asian country has been in chaos & its economy in tatters since the military seized power in 2021 coup. Attacks by ethnic minority armies & resistance fighters have challenged the rule of the military. The armed forces have been responding with air strikes & heavy weapons, including in civilian areas. At least 1.2 million people have been displaced by post-coup fighting, according to UN.

Myanmar in chaos, economy in tatters | Military rule vs ethnic minority armies & resistance fighters

The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Japan, and Australia on Wednesday (March 29) expressed their concerns over the dissolution of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party, the news agency Reuters reported. A day earlier, the junta disbanded the NLD and 39 other political parties over their failure to meet a deadline to register for an election that is set to extend the army's grip on power.

In January, the junta had given political parties two months to re-register under a strict new electoral law ahead of the election. According to state broadcaster MRTV, only 50 out of the 90 existing parties applied to re-register under the new rules.&nbsp;

In separate statements, the governments of the US, UK, Japan, and Australia condemned the junta's decision.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said, "Any election without the participation of all stakeholders in Burma (Myanmar's former name) would not be and can not be considered free or fair."

Criticising the dissolution of the NLD, a spokesperson from Britain's foreign office said, "We condemn the military regime's politically motivated actions and their use of increasingly brutal tactics to sow fear and repress opposition."

"We are seriously concerned that the exclusion of the NLD from the political process will make it even more difficult to improve the situation," Japan's foreign ministry said in a statement. The ministry added that Japan strongly urged Myanmar to immediately release NLD officials, including Suu Kyi, and to show a path toward a peaceful resolution of the issue in a manner that includes all parties concerned.&nbsp;

Australia, meanwhile, said it was seriously concerned about a further narrowing of political space in Myanmar because of tough election registration requirements. In a statement, Australia's Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade said all stakeholders should be allowed to participate in the political process and warned their exclusion could lead to further violence and instability.

"We will continue to closely monitor the regime's actions, and call for the restoration of democracy including credible elections," the statement added.&nbsp;

Myanmar has been in turmoil since a military coup two years back&nbsp;that upended a decade of tentative democracy, and a bloody crackdown on protests giving rise&nbsp;to an armed struggle against the junta.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Japan, and Australia on Wednesday (March 29) expressed their concerns over the dissolution of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party, the news agency Reuters reported.

The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Japan, and Australia on Wednesday (March 29) expressed their concerns over the dissolution of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party, the news agency Reuters reported. A day earlier, the junta disbanded the NLD and 39 other political parties over their failure to meet a deadline to register for an election that is set to extend the army's grip on power. In January, the junta had given political parties two months to re-register under a strict new electoral law ahead of the election. According to state broadcaster MRTV, only 50 out of the 90 existing parties applied to re-register under the new rules. In separate statements, the governments of the US, UK, Japan, and Australia condemned the junta's decision. Speaking to reporters, US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said, "Any election without the participation of all stakeholders in Burma (Myanmar's former name) would not be and can not be considered free or fair." Criticising the dissolution of the NLD, a spokesperson from Britain's foreign office said, "We condemn the military regime's politically motivated actions and their use of increasingly brutal tactics to sow fear and repress opposition." "We are seriously concerned that the exclusion of the NLD from the political process will make it even more difficult to improve the situation," Japan's foreign ministry said in a statement. The ministry added that Japan strongly urged Myanmar to immediately release NLD officials, including Suu Kyi, and to show a path toward a peaceful resolution of the issue in a manner that includes all parties concerned. Australia, meanwhile, said it was seriously concerned about a further narrowing of political space in Myanmar because of tough election registration requirements. In a statement, Australia's Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade said all stakeholders should be allowed to participate in the political process and warned their exclusion could lead to further violence and instability. "We will continue to closely monitor the regime's actions, and call for the restoration of democracy including credible elections," the statement added. Myanmar has been in turmoil since a military coup two years back that upended a decade of tentative democracy, and a bloody crackdown on protests giving rise to an armed struggle against the junta. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US, 3 other nations express concerns over dissolution of Myanmar's NLD party

US will soon impose more sanctions on Myanmar&nbsp;to thwart all efforts by the junta in the Southeast Asian nation to generate revenue and procure arms. A senior State Department official said Wednesday that further sanctions will be announced in coming days, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

While speaking with media personnel in Jakarta, US State Department Counselor Derek Chollet said, "We're committed to ratchet up the pressure on the junta and make it harder for them to generate revenue, which is fuelling its war machine."

Chollet further said, "Myanmar is on the path to becoming a failed state in the heart of Southeast Asia."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-reach-agreement-on-second-power-of-siberia-gas-pipeline-574515">Russia, China reach agreement on second Power of Siberia gas pipeline</a>

The humanitarian crises in Burma have only gotten worse since the military overthrew the government on February 1, 2021.&nbsp;According to reports, there have been close to 3,000 fatalities, 17,000 arrests, and over&nbsp;1.5 million people got displaced.

Chollet added that Russia must stop its arms supply to Myanmar's junta. "One way that can happen is if the junta is no longer able to import arms and we would make a very large step in that direction if Russia were to stop supplying arms to Myanmar," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-approves-its-first-mrna-vaccine-months-after-easing-covid-restrictions-574576">China approves its first mRNA vaccine, months after easing Covid restrictions</a>

The United States has been working to strengthen its relationship with ASEAN and its members over the situation in Burma. Chollet urged the grouping to exclude Myanmar's political representation from all of its meetings.&nbsp;

United States says that it will continue to support the pro-democracy movement in Myanmar to establish peace and multi-party administration.&nbsp;United States and other Western nations have already issued a number of sanctions that target the military government's agencies, enterprises, and people. According to Chollet, the US has sanctioned 80 people and more than 30 organisations in Myanmar so far.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-winners-in-a-nuclear-war-russia-china-joint-statement-574571">'No winners in a nuclear war': Russia-China joint statement</a>

"The regime needs to fully understand that as long as it is continuing to prosecute such a brutal a campaign against their own people that they will suffer the consequences for that -- and that will include further isolation in the international community." 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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US will soon impose more sanctions on Myanmar to thwart all efforts by the junta in the Southeast Asian nation to generate revenue and procure arms. A senior State Department official said Wednesday that further sanctions will be announced in coming days, reported Reuters.

US will soon impose more sanctions on Myanmar to thwart all efforts by the junta in the Southeast Asian nation to generate revenue and procure arms. A senior State Department official said Wednesday that further sanctions will be announced in coming days, reported Reuters. While speaking with media personnel in Jakarta, US State Department Counselor Derek Chollet said, "We're committed to ratchet up the pressure on the junta and make it harder for them to generate revenue, which is fuelling its war machine." Chollet further said, "Myanmar is on the path to becoming a failed state in the heart of Southeast Asia." Also Read | Russia, China reach agreement on second Power of Siberia gas pipeline The humanitarian crises in Burma have only gotten worse since the military overthrew the government on February 1, 2021. According to reports, there have been close to 3,000 fatalities, 17,000 arrests, and over 1.5 million people got displaced. Chollet added that Russia must stop its arms supply to Myanmar's junta. "One way that can happen is if the junta is no longer able to import arms and we would make a very large step in that direction if Russia were to stop supplying arms to Myanmar," he said. Also Read | China approves its first mRNA vaccine, months after easing Covid restrictions The United States has been working to strengthen its relationship with ASEAN and its members over the situation in Burma. Chollet urged the grouping to exclude Myanmar's political representation from all of its meetings. United States says that it will continue to support the pro-democracy movement in Myanmar to establish peace and multi-party administration. United States and other Western nations have already issued a number of sanctions that target the military government's agencies, enterprises, and people. According to Chollet, the US has sanctioned 80 people and more than 30 organisations in Myanmar so far. Watch | 'No winners in a nuclear war': Russia-China joint statement "The regime needs to fully understand that as long as it is continuing to prosecute such a brutal a campaign against their own people that they will suffer the consequences for that -- and that will include further isolation in the international community." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US to impose more sanctions on Myanmar, says Russia must stop arms supply to junta

Myanmar's junta has extended the country's state of emergency by another six months. where does this leave the promise of elections? how much more repression can the people tolerate? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Two years since the Myanmar military coup

As citizen groups across Myanmar observed a "silent protest" on the anniversary of a 2021 military coup, country's military rulers extended the state of emergency by another six months. At the same time, protesters and exiled civilian leaders on Wednesday vowed to end what they called the army's "illegal power grab". In major cities across Myanmar, people observed a self-imposed lockdown. Hundreds of democracy supporters attended rallies in Thailand and the Philippines.

Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing, in a meeting on Tuesday with the army-backed National Defence and Security Council (NDSC), also said multi-party elections must be held "as the people desire". General Min Aung Hlaing did not specify a timeline for the polls.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-junta-extends-state-of-emergency-by-six-months-558091">Myanmar: Junta extends State of Emergency by six months</a>

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"Although according to the section 425 of the constitution, (a state of emergency) can only be granted two times, the current situation is under unusual circumstances and it is suitable to extend it one more time of six months," Acting President Myint Swe&nbsp;said at the meeting broadcast by MRTV.

The Southeast Asian country's top generals led a coup in February 2021 after five years of tense power-sharing under a quasi-civilian political system created by the military. The country's already intense ethnic tensions aggravated as military took over the power, leaving a trail of upended lives in its wake.

'Silent protest' against military rule

In the main commercial cities of Yangon and Mandalay, images on social media showed deserted streets in what coup opponents called a "silent protest" against the junta. Democracy activists had urged people not to go out between 10 AM and 3 PM.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/here-are-all-the-general-elections-lined-up-for-2023-553037">Here are all the general elections lined up for 2023</a>

There was also a rally in Yangon by about 100 supporters of the military, flanked by soldiers, photographs showed.

In Thailand, hundreds of anti-coup protesters held a rally outside Myanmar's embassy in Bangkok.

"This year is decisive for us to completely uproot the military regime," said Acchariya, a Buddhist monk attending the rally.

Others in the crowd chanted: "We are the people, we have the future" and "The revolution must prevail."

Activists also staged a protest in the Philippine capital, Manila.

Myanmar's military took power after complaining of fraud in a November 2020 general election won by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's party. Election monitoring groups found no evidence of mass fraud.

It declared a state of emergency for a year when it took power and has since extended it twice for six months, with the latest phase expiring on Wednesday.

Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party was decimated by the coup, with thousands of its members arrested or jailed, including Suu Kyi, and many more in hiding. Suu Kyi has described this year's planned election as "phoney" and said her party&nbsp;would not acknowledge it.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As citizen groups across Myanmar observed a "silent protest" on the anniversary of a 2021 military coup, country's military rulers extended the state of emergency by another six months.

As citizen groups across Myanmar observed a "silent protest" on the anniversary of a 2021 military coup, country's military rulers extended the state of emergency by another six months. At the same time, protesters and exiled civilian leaders on Wednesday vowed to end what they called the army's "illegal power grab". In major cities across Myanmar, people observed a self-imposed lockdown. Hundreds of democracy supporters attended rallies in Thailand and the Philippines. Junta leader General Min Aung Hlaing, in a meeting on Tuesday with the army-backed National Defence and Security Council (NDSC), also said multi-party elections must be held "as the people desire". General Min Aung Hlaing did not specify a timeline for the polls. ALSO WATCH | Myanmar: Junta extends State of Emergency by six months × "Although according to the section 425 of the constitution, (a state of emergency) can only be granted two times, the current situation is under unusual circumstances and it is suitable to extend it one more time of six months," Acting President Myint Swe said at the meeting broadcast by MRTV. The Southeast Asian country's top generals led a coup in February 2021 after five years of tense power-sharing under a quasi-civilian political system created by the military. The country's already intense ethnic tensions aggravated as military took over the power, leaving a trail of upended lives in its wake. 'Silent protest' against military rule In the main commercial cities of Yangon and Mandalay, images on social media showed deserted streets in what coup opponents called a "silent protest" against the junta. Democracy activists had urged people not to go out between 10 AM and 3 PM. ALSO READ | Here are all the general elections lined up for 2023 There was also a rally in Yangon by about 100 supporters of the military, flanked by soldiers, photographs showed. In Thailand, hundreds of anti-coup protesters held a rally outside Myanmar's embassy in Bangkok. "This year is decisive for us to completely uproot the military regime," said Acchariya, a Buddhist monk attending the rally. Others in the crowd chanted: "We are the people, we have the future" and "The revolution must prevail." Activists also staged a protest in the Philippine capital, Manila. Myanmar's military took power after complaining of fraud in a November 2020 general election won by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's party. Election monitoring groups found no evidence of mass fraud. It declared a state of emergency for a year when it took power and has since extended it twice for six months, with the latest phase expiring on Wednesday. Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party was decimated by the coup, with thousands of its members arrested or jailed, including Suu Kyi, and many more in hiding. Suu Kyi has described this year's planned election as "phoney" and said her party would not acknowledge it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar: People observe 'silent protest' as military rulers extend emergency

The birth of a rare albino Elephant is being portrayed by Myanmar's junta as a ground for legitimacy of its rule due to the revered status of the rare tusker in the Burmese culture.&nbsp;According traditional Burmese&nbsp;beliefs, the region's ancient rulers regarded white Elephants as extremely auspicious. Their birth as well as sudden appearance in an area was conceived as a symbol of righteous political power.

The pale white Elephant will feature on a special postage stamp to mark Myanmar's 75th independence day, state media said on Tuesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-photos-myanmar-junta-celebrates-75th-independence-day-with-show-of-force-549290">In photos: Myanmar junta celebrates Independence Day; to free 7,012 prisoners</a>

A set of gold commemorative coins bearing the animal's image is also already being cast for the occasion, another report said.

The rare tusker's highest-profile engagement so far was a meeting with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing in October. During this meeting, the senior general bestowed it the&nbsp;name,&nbsp;Rattha Nandaka, at a televised ceremony.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/military-ruled-myanmar-marks-75-years-of-independence-549477">Military-ruled Myanmar marks 75 years of Independence</a>

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'Rattha Nandaka'&nbsp;comes from the ancient Pali words for 'country'&nbsp;and 'happiness'.&nbsp;

In Myanmar, the craze for white elephants goes back hundreds of years.&nbsp;Traditional chronicles tell of kings in Thailand, Laos and Myanmar warring to capture the beasts from rivals.

The ruinous cost of keeping them in appropriately lavish style gave rise to the modern expression in which a "white elephant" is a useless, if beautiful, possession.

One creature inherited by a 19th century Burmese king was waited on by 30 servants and dressed in a "fine red cloth plentifully studded" with rubies and diamonds, according to a visiting British official.

The king, who had usurped his brother, "would gladly hail the capture of a real white elephant in his own day as an assent from the Powers of Nature to his own legitimate royalty," the envoy added.

But the fortunes of the creatures are tied up with the ruler under whom they were captured.

Two elephants, once feted by a former junta, are now confined to a damp, out-of-the-way compound in commercial hub Yangon where they receive few visitors.

"Rattha Nandaka" will spend its days in a special compound for white elephants in military-built capital Naypyidaw, AFP reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The birth of a rare albino Elephant is being portrayed by Myanmar's junta as a ground for legitimacy of its rule due to the revered status of the rare tusker in the Burmese culture.

The birth of a rare albino Elephant is being portrayed by Myanmar's junta as a ground for legitimacy of its rule due to the revered status of the rare tusker in the Burmese culture. According traditional Burmese beliefs, the region's ancient rulers regarded white Elephants as extremely auspicious. Their birth as well as sudden appearance in an area was conceived as a symbol of righteous political power. The pale white Elephant will feature on a special postage stamp to mark Myanmar's 75th independence day, state media said on Tuesday. ALSO READ | In photos: Myanmar junta celebrates Independence Day; to free 7,012 prisoners A set of gold commemorative coins bearing the animal's image is also already being cast for the occasion, another report said. The rare tusker's highest-profile engagement so far was a meeting with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing in October. During this meeting, the senior general bestowed it the name, Rattha Nandaka, at a televised ceremony. WATCH | Military-ruled Myanmar marks 75 years of Independence × 'Rattha Nandaka' comes from the ancient Pali words for 'country' and 'happiness'. In Myanmar, the craze for white elephants goes back hundreds of years. Traditional chronicles tell of kings in Thailand, Laos and Myanmar warring to capture the beasts from rivals. The ruinous cost of keeping them in appropriately lavish style gave rise to the modern expression in which a "white elephant" is a useless, if beautiful, possession. One creature inherited by a 19th century Burmese king was waited on by 30 servants and dressed in a "fine red cloth plentifully studded" with rubies and diamonds, according to a visiting British official. The king, who had usurped his brother, "would gladly hail the capture of a real white elephant in his own day as an assent from the Powers of Nature to his own legitimate royalty," the envoy added. But the fortunes of the creatures are tied up with the ruler under whom they were captured. Two elephants, once feted by a former junta, are now confined to a damp, out-of-the-way compound in commercial hub Yangon where they receive few visitors. "Rattha Nandaka" will spend its days in a special compound for white elephants in military-built capital Naypyidaw, AFP reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar junta claims white elephant as good omen, legitimacy for its rule

In photos: Myanmar junta celebrates Independence Day; to free 7,012 prisoners

Jailed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's political party on Saturday (December 31) condemned the&nbsp;latest jail sentence announced against her and said that it would continue to oppose the military junta whose court imposed it.&nbsp;On Friday, Suu Kyi was handed a seven-year jail on corruption charges. Rights groups say that the trials were a sham. The Nobel laureate, 77, has now been sentenced to a total of 33 years in prison.

Former president and Suu Kyi ally Win Myint received the same sentence on Friday.&nbsp; 
 
Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) central committee said in a statement, "Win Myint and Aung San Suu Kyi worked for development of the country during the time they were in power, and they worked according to the law."

The NLD "will continue to work with the people... for the release of all political prisoners, to get rid of the military dictatorship and fight for justice", it said.

The military has cited alleged widespread voter fraud during elections in November 2020, which were won resoundingly by the NLD, as a reason for its coup, which sparked huge protests and a bloody crackdown.&nbsp;

International observers said at the time that the polls were largely free and fair.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Jailed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's political party on Saturday (December 31) condemned the latest jail sentence announced against her and said that it would continue to oppose the military junta whose court imposed it.

Jailed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi's political party on Saturday (December 31) condemned the latest jail sentence announced against her and said that it would continue to oppose the military junta whose court imposed it. On Friday, Suu Kyi was handed a seven-year jail on corruption charges. Rights groups say that the trials were a sham. The Nobel laureate, 77, has now been sentenced to a total of 33 years in prison. Former president and Suu Kyi ally Win Myint received the same sentence on Friday. Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) central committee said in a statement, "Win Myint and Aung San Suu Kyi worked for development of the country during the time they were in power, and they worked according to the law." The NLD "will continue to work with the people... for the release of all political prisoners, to get rid of the military dictatorship and fight for justice", it said. The military has cited alleged widespread voter fraud during elections in November 2020, which were won resoundingly by the NLD, as a reason for its coup, which sparked huge protests and a bloody crackdown. International observers said at the time that the polls were largely free and fair. (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 ×

Aung San Suu Kyi’s party condemns latest jail sentence to her by court in junta regime

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