Pro-democracy monks march against military junta in Myanmar

Myanmar is facing the alarming prospect of an escalating civil war as an uprising against the military junta widens, the UN's human rights chief warned on Thursday.

Michelle Bachelet told the United Nations Human Rights Council that time was running out for other countries to step up efforts to restore democracy and prevent a broader conflict.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since Aung San Suu Kyi's government was ousted by the military in February, sparking a nationwide uprising that the junta has tried to crush.

Attacks on troops have increased since lawmakers ousted by the generals called for a "people's defensive war" earlier this month.

Bachelet said the human rights situation had deteriorated significantly as the effects of the coup "devastate lives and hopes across the country".

"Conflict, poverty and the effects of the pandemic are sharply increasing, and the country faces a vortex of repression, violence and economic collapse," she said.

Faced with the "overwhelming repression of fundamental rights", the armed resistance movement was growing.

"These disturbing trends suggest the alarming possibility of an escalating civil war," she said.

Bachelet urged countries to support a political process that would engage all parties, saying the ASEAN regional bloc and influential powers should use incentives and disincentives "to reverse the military coup and desperate spiral of violence".

"Myanmar's stability and path to democracy and prosperity have been sacrificed over these last months to advance the ambitions of a privileged and entrenched military elite," she said.

"The national consequences are terrible and tragic -- the regional consequences could also be profound. The international community must redouble its efforts to restore democracy and prevent wider conflict before it is too late. "

Bachelet said more than 1,100 people had now reportedly died at the hands of the security forces since the coup, while over 8,000 others, including children, have been arrested and more than 4,700 are still in detention.

The former Chilean president urged all parties -- but especially the military -- to allow unrestricted access to humanitarian aid, and called for the immediate release of all political prisoners.

She called for all armed forces to protect civilians and said the use of air strikes and artillery in residential areas must cease immediately.

Myanmar is facing the alarming prospect of an escalating civil war as an uprising against the military junta widens, the UN's human rights chief warned on Thursday.

Myanmar is facing the alarming prospect of an escalating civil war as an uprising against the military junta widens, the UN's human rights chief warned on Thursday. Michelle Bachelet told the United Nations Human Rights Council that time was running out for other countries to step up efforts to restore democracy and prevent a broader conflict. Myanmar has been in turmoil since Aung San Suu Kyi's government was ousted by the military in February, sparking a nationwide uprising that the junta has tried to crush. Attacks on troops have increased since lawmakers ousted by the generals called for a "people's defensive war" earlier this month. Bachelet said the human rights situation had deteriorated significantly as the effects of the coup "devastate lives and hopes across the country". "Conflict, poverty and the effects of the pandemic are sharply increasing, and the country faces a vortex of repression, violence and economic collapse," she said. Faced with the "overwhelming repression of fundamental rights", the armed resistance movement was growing. "These disturbing trends suggest the alarming possibility of an escalating civil war," she said. Bachelet urged countries to support a political process that would engage all parties, saying the ASEAN regional bloc and influential powers should use incentives and disincentives "to reverse the military coup and desperate spiral of violence". "Myanmar's stability and path to democracy and prosperity have been sacrificed over these last months to advance the ambitions of a privileged and entrenched military elite," she said. "The national consequences are terrible and tragic -- the regional consequences could also be profound. The international community must redouble its efforts to restore democracy and prevent wider conflict before it is too late. " Bachelet said more than 1,100 people had now reportedly died at the hands of the security forces since the coup, while over 8,000 others, including children, have been arrested and more than 4,700 are still in detention. The former Chilean president urged all parties -- but especially the military -- to allow unrestricted access to humanitarian aid, and called for the immediate release of all political prisoners. She called for all armed forces to protect civilians and said the use of air strikes and artillery in residential areas must cease immediately.

Myanmar facing 'alarming' risk of escalating civil war: UN rights chief

According to the UN special rapporteur for the country, Myanmar’s military junta is systematically abducting the relatives of people it is seeking to arrest. This also includes children as young as 20 weeks old.

Tom Andrews, on Wednesday, told the UN Human Rights Council that conditions in the country have deteriorated and that “current efforts by the international community to stop the downward spiral of events in Myanmar are simply not working”.

“I have received credible reports that junta forces have arbitrarily detained at least 177 individuals­ when the initial target of a raid had successfully eluded arrest. These victims include very young children as young as 20 weeks old,” he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-want-to-address-un-general-assembly-appoint-new-envoy-414770">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban want to address UN General Assembly, appoint new envoy</a>

He further added that the military was routinely abducting family members when it is unable to locate individuals it is seeking to arrest.

The military junta has murdered more than 1,100 people, he revealed. This includes dozen of children.&nbsp;

As of July, the junta had killed at least 75 children ranging in age from 14 months to 17 years.

Andrew called for a “change of course” by the international community. This will be done to avert further human rights abuses and deaths as he warned that there are now more than 230,000 civilians who have been displaced because of the junta.

According to the UN special rapporteur for the country, Myanmar’s military junta is systematically abducting the relatives of people it is seeking to arrest. This also includes children as young as 20 weeks old.

According to the UN special rapporteur for the country, Myanmar’s military junta is systematically abducting the relatives of people it is seeking to arrest. This also includes children as young as 20 weeks old. Tom Andrews, on Wednesday, told the UN Human Rights Council that conditions in the country have deteriorated and that “current efforts by the international community to stop the downward spiral of events in Myanmar are simply not working”. “I have received credible reports that junta forces have arbitrarily detained at least 177 individuals when the initial target of a raid had successfully eluded arrest. These victims include very young children as young as 20 weeks old,” he said. Also read | Taliban want to address UN General Assembly, appoint new envoy He further added that the military was routinely abducting family members when it is unable to locate individuals it is seeking to arrest. The military junta has murdered more than 1,100 people, he revealed. This includes dozen of children. As of July, the junta had killed at least 75 children ranging in age from 14 months to 17 years. Andrew called for a “change of course” by the international community. This will be done to avert further human rights abuses and deaths as he warned that there are now more than 230,000 civilians who have been displaced because of the junta.

Myanmar junta has murdered more than 1,100 people, says UN expert

Most of the population of a Myanmar town near the Indian border have fled after buildings were set ablaze by artillery amid fighting between militia forces opposed to military rule and the army, according to residents and media reports.

About 10,000 people normally live in Thantlang in Chin State, but most had left to seek shelter in surrounding areas including some in India, a community leader said.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since a government led by pro-democracy veteran Aung San Suu Kyi was toppled on Feb. 1, sparking nationwide anger, strikes, protests, and the emergence of anti-junta militia.

During fighting between militia forces and the army last weekend, about 20 homes were set ablaze, with photographs on social media showing buildings engulfed in flames.

Soldiers shot dead a Christian pastor who tried to extinguish a blaze, the Myanmar Now news portal reported, although state media disputed the report.

The Global New Light of Myanmar said the death of the pastor was being investigated and that soldiers had been ambushed by about 100 "terrorists" and both sides exchanged fire.

Militia fighters had overrun an army base earlier in September and the military responded with air strikes, said Salai Thang, a community leader, who said four civilians had been killed and 15 wounded in recent weeks.

The Chin Defence Force, a militia opposed to the military, said in a statement 30 soldiers had been killed.

Reuters could not independently confirm any of the claims and a military spokesman did not answer calls seeking comment.

A relative of the dead pastor told Reuters that most people had fled the town, although a handful of households remained including about 20 children in an orphanage run by the pastor.

"The murder of a Baptist minister and bombing of homes in Thantlang, Chin State are the latest examples of the living hell being delivered daily by junta forces against the people of Myanmar," Thomas Andrews, U.N. special rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, said in a message on Twitter this week.

There has been an upsurge in bloodshed in areas like Chin State after the National Unity Government, a shadow underground administration set up by opponents of the military, declared an uprising on Sept. 7 and called on the new militia, known as People's Defence Forces (PDF), to target the junta and its assets.

The attempts by the PDFs to take on the well-equipped army have often resulted in civilians being caught in cross fire and forced to flee.

Community leader Salai Thang said he was deeply concerned about the displaced people who were sheltering in nearby villages and some in India's Mizoram state.

"Those refugees are now badly struggling for food and shelter," he said by telephone.

Most of the population of a Myanmar town near the Indian border have fled after buildings were set ablaze by artillery amid fighting between militia forces opposed to military rule and the army, according to residents and media reports.

Most of the population of a Myanmar town near the Indian border have fled after buildings were set ablaze by artillery amid fighting between militia forces opposed to military rule and the army, according to residents and media reports. About 10,000 people normally live in Thantlang in Chin State, but most had left to seek shelter in surrounding areas including some in India, a community leader said. Myanmar has been in turmoil since a government led by pro-democracy veteran Aung San Suu Kyi was toppled on Feb. 1, sparking nationwide anger, strikes, protests, and the emergence of anti-junta militia. During fighting between militia forces and the army last weekend, about 20 homes were set ablaze, with photographs on social media showing buildings engulfed in flames. Soldiers shot dead a Christian pastor who tried to extinguish a blaze, the Myanmar Now news portal reported, although state media disputed the report. The Global New Light of Myanmar said the death of the pastor was being investigated and that soldiers had been ambushed by about 100 "terrorists" and both sides exchanged fire. Militia fighters had overrun an army base earlier in September and the military responded with air strikes, said Salai Thang, a community leader, who said four civilians had been killed and 15 wounded in recent weeks. The Chin Defence Force, a militia opposed to the military, said in a statement 30 soldiers had been killed. Reuters could not independently confirm any of the claims and a military spokesman did not answer calls seeking comment. A relative of the dead pastor told Reuters that most people had fled the town, although a handful of households remained including about 20 children in an orphanage run by the pastor. "The murder of a Baptist minister and bombing of homes in Thantlang, Chin State are the latest examples of the living hell being delivered daily by junta forces against the people of Myanmar," Thomas Andrews, U.N. special rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, said in a message on Twitter this week. There has been an upsurge in bloodshed in areas like Chin State after the National Unity Government, a shadow underground administration set up by opponents of the military, declared an uprising on Sept. 7 and called on the new militia, known as People's Defence Forces (PDF), to target the junta and its assets. The attempts by the PDFs to take on the well-equipped army have often resulted in civilians being caught in cross fire and forced to flee. Community leader Salai Thang said he was deeply concerned about the displaced people who were sheltering in nearby villages and some in India's Mizoram state. "Those refugees are now badly struggling for food and shelter," he said by telephone.

Myanmar town near India border sees exodus as thousands flee fighting

Danny Fenster, an American journalist who was arrested in May as he prepared to leave Myanmar, was ordered Monday to remain in prison as police investigate a vague accusation that he disseminated information that could be harmful to the military.

The court hearing marked his 120th day in custody. Fenster is the only American known to be under arrest in Myanmar and has become an international symbol of the military junta’s crackdown on free expression.

No formal charge has been filed against the Detroit native. No evidence has been presented against him at any of his eight court appearances, which are conducted by video and last only a few minutes. He is not permitted to speak or ask questions and has rarely met with his attorney since his arrest May 24.

Fenster, managing editor of Frontier Myanmar magazine, is accused of disseminating information that might induce military officers to disregard or fail in their duties, a charge often brought against journalists in the Southeast Asian nation. He faces three years in prison.

The Biden administration, Amnesty International, the Committee to Protect Journalists, Frontier Myanmar and Fenster’s family have called for his release.

“The detention of Danny Fenster and other journalists constitutes an unacceptable attack on freedom of expression in Burma,” State Department spokesman Ned Price said earlier this month, using the country’s former name. “We continue to press Burma’s military regime to release Danny immediately.”

Myanmar’s military, which had shared power with civilian governments for a decade, seized control in a Feb. 1 coup, triggering widespread street protests and a nationwide general strike. Troops and police have killed more than 1,100 people and imprisoned 6,600, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, an advocacy group.

The junta has arrested more than 100 journalists since February, and 47 remain in custody, according to a media group that is tracking arrests. Four of those arrested have been foreign journalists: two from the United States, one from Japan and one from Poland.

All but Fenster have been deported, including Nathan Maung, an American citizen and co-founder of Kamayut Media, an online news site. While in custody, Maung and his co-founder, Hanthar Nyein, were severely beaten, burned and forced to kneel on ice with their hands cuffed behind them, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-urges-immediate-us-action-on-migration-causes-414538">Also read |&nbsp;Mexico urges immediate US action on migration causes</a>

Fenster and his wife, Juliana, had been married less than seven weeks when he was arrested at Yangon International Airport as he prepared to leave the country. She has remained in Myanmar to work for his release but has been given limited access to him.

Fenster is being held at the notorious Insein Prison. COVID-19 swept through the institution earlier this year, and Fenster appears to have caught it. He lost his sense of taste and smell and suffered chest congestion, among other symptoms, but was never tested. He has since largely recovered, his family said.

He has seldom been allowed to have visitors, and his communications with family and the United States embassy have been limited. His lawyer, Than Zaw Aung, said he last met his client in person July 15 and that Fenster has never received a COVID vaccine. During Monday’s video hearing, Fenster looked tired, the lawyer said.

Fenster’s elder brother, Bryan, spoke with him in a rare phone call last week and said that he remained positive.

“He is making the best of it, and he has a great attitude,” Bryan Fenster said, adding, “but he has no idea of what is going on in his case.”

Danny Fenster, 37, arrived in Myanmar in 2019 and worked for three of the top English-language news organizations there, most recently at Frontier. He oversaw the English versions of stories for the print magazine and online, his brother said.

The regime’s decision to arrest Fenster appears to have stemmed from his previous employment at Myanmar Now, another online news outlet, even though he left that job nearly a year before starting work at Frontier.

Myanmar Now and its editor-in-chief, Swe Win, have long been targets of the military because of the outlet’s tough investigative reporting. Swe Win left the country after he was wounded in a 2019 assassination attempt.

Swe Win said the regime may have pursued Fenster because he helped report on a Myanmar Now story last year that highlighted the military’s business partnership with Japanese companies in developing a $330 million luxury hotel and office complex on military-owned land near downtown Yangon.

“I believe that Danny’s name was on the arrest list because he worked on that story,” Swe Win said.

A complaint letter filed with the court shows that police mistakenly believed Fenster still worked for Myanmar Now at the time of his arrest, Frontier reported.

Swe Win praised Fenster’s dedication to journalism.

“Danny is interested in Myanmar news and has a strong passion for his professional work,” he said. “He is also humble and always gets along well with his co-workers. He is a good colleague.”

Bryan Fenster said the family hoped the regime would bring formal charges, which could pave the way for his deportation.

“We just want him to go back into court so they can go through their process,” Bryan Fenster said. “The sooner they can go through the process the sooner they can deport him.”

The US Embassy in Yangon is attempting to secure Danny Fenster’s release but has little leverage with the military regime. An embassy spokesman said the State Department is seeking regular contact with Fenster and last spoke with him a week ago.

Fenster earned a master’s degree in creative writing from Wayne State University and worked for news outlets in Detroit and Louisiana before moving to Myanmar. “We always joke in our family that he’s kind of like a tumbleweed,” his brother said. “He establishes roots in one place, and then he is off somewhere else.”

The Fenster brothers, grandsons of Holocaust survivors, volunteered in the mid-2000s to assist refugees in Chicago and were assigned to help a family from Myanmar. That may have helped inspire Fenster’s decision to live there, his brother said.

“Danny is a human being who, in his essence, is hard-wired to care and learn about other human beings,” he said. “In that same spirit of human kindness, we are hoping and expecting that he will be released and reunited with his family and loved ones at home.”

Danny Fenster, an American journalist who was arrested in May as he prepared to leave Myanmar, was ordered Monday to remain in prison as police investigate a vague accusation that he disseminated information that could be harmful to the military.

Danny Fenster, an American journalist who was arrested in May as he prepared to leave Myanmar, was ordered Monday to remain in prison as police investigate a vague accusation that he disseminated information that could be harmful to the military. The court hearing marked his 120th day in custody. Fenster is the only American known to be under arrest in Myanmar and has become an international symbol of the military junta’s crackdown on free expression. No formal charge has been filed against the Detroit native. No evidence has been presented against him at any of his eight court appearances, which are conducted by video and last only a few minutes. He is not permitted to speak or ask questions and has rarely met with his attorney since his arrest May 24. Fenster, managing editor of Frontier Myanmar magazine, is accused of disseminating information that might induce military officers to disregard or fail in their duties, a charge often brought against journalists in the Southeast Asian nation. He faces three years in prison. The Biden administration, Amnesty International, the Committee to Protect Journalists, Frontier Myanmar and Fenster’s family have called for his release. “The detention of Danny Fenster and other journalists constitutes an unacceptable attack on freedom of expression in Burma,” State Department spokesman Ned Price said earlier this month, using the country’s former name. “We continue to press Burma’s military regime to release Danny immediately.” Myanmar’s military, which had shared power with civilian governments for a decade, seized control in a Feb. 1 coup, triggering widespread street protests and a nationwide general strike. Troops and police have killed more than 1,100 people and imprisoned 6,600, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, an advocacy group. The junta has arrested more than 100 journalists since February, and 47 remain in custody, according to a media group that is tracking arrests. Four of those arrested have been foreign journalists: two from the United States, one from Japan and one from Poland. All but Fenster have been deported, including Nathan Maung, an American citizen and co-founder of Kamayut Media, an online news site. While in custody, Maung and his co-founder, Hanthar Nyein, were severely beaten, burned and forced to kneel on ice with their hands cuffed behind them, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Also read | Mexico urges immediate US action on migration causes Fenster and his wife, Juliana, had been married less than seven weeks when he was arrested at Yangon International Airport as he prepared to leave the country. She has remained in Myanmar to work for his release but has been given limited access to him. Fenster is being held at the notorious Insein Prison. COVID-19 swept through the institution earlier this year, and Fenster appears to have caught it. He lost his sense of taste and smell and suffered chest congestion, among other symptoms, but was never tested. He has since largely recovered, his family said. He has seldom been allowed to have visitors, and his communications with family and the United States embassy have been limited. His lawyer, Than Zaw Aung, said he last met his client in person July 15 and that Fenster has never received a COVID vaccine. During Monday’s video hearing, Fenster looked tired, the lawyer said. Fenster’s elder brother, Bryan, spoke with him in a rare phone call last week and said that he remained positive. “He is making the best of it, and he has a great attitude,” Bryan Fenster said, adding, “but he has no idea of what is going on in his case.” Danny Fenster, 37, arrived in Myanmar in 2019 and worked for three of the top English-language news organizations there, most recently at Frontier. He oversaw the English versions of stories for the print magazine and online, his brother said. The regime’s decision to arrest Fenster appears to have stemmed from his previous employment at Myanmar Now, another online news outlet, even though he left that job nearly a year before starting work at Frontier. Myanmar Now and its editor-in-chief, Swe Win, have long been targets of the military because of the outlet’s tough investigative reporting. Swe Win left the country after he was wounded in a 2019 assassination attempt. Swe Win said the regime may have pursued Fenster because he helped report on a Myanmar Now story last year that highlighted the military’s business partnership with Japanese companies in developing a $330 million luxury hotel and office complex on military-owned land near downtown Yangon. “I believe that Danny’s name was on the arrest list because he worked on that story,” Swe Win said. A complaint letter filed with the court shows that police mistakenly believed Fenster still worked for Myanmar Now at the time of his arrest, Frontier reported. Swe Win praised Fenster’s dedication to journalism. “Danny is interested in Myanmar news and has a strong passion for his professional work,” he said. “He is also humble and always gets along well with his co-workers. He is a good colleague.” Bryan Fenster said the family hoped the regime would bring formal charges, which could pave the way for his deportation. “We just want him to go back into court so they can go through their process,” Bryan Fenster said. “The sooner they can go through the process the sooner they can deport him.” The US Embassy in Yangon is attempting to secure Danny Fenster’s release but has little leverage with the military regime. An embassy spokesman said the State Department is seeking regular contact with Fenster and last spoke with him a week ago. Fenster earned a master’s degree in creative writing from Wayne State University and worked for news outlets in Detroit and Louisiana before moving to Myanmar. “We always joke in our family that he’s kind of like a tumbleweed,” his brother said. “He establishes roots in one place, and then he is off somewhere else.” The Fenster brothers, grandsons of Holocaust survivors, volunteered in the mid-2000s to assist refugees in Chicago and were assigned to help a family from Myanmar. That may have helped inspire Fenster’s decision to live there, his brother said. “Danny is a human being who, in his essence, is hard-wired to care and learn about other human beings,” he said. “In that same spirit of human kindness, we are hoping and expecting that he will be released and reunited with his family and loved ones at home.”

An American journalist sits in prison as Myanmar suppresses dissent

Myanmar's junta has put ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on trial for incitement, her lawyer said Tuesday, the latest in a list of charges that could see her jailed for decades.

Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy were deposed by the military in a February coup that sparked a mass uprising and a brutal junta crackdown on dissent.

The Nobel laureate, 76, has been under house arrest ever since, with meetings with her lawyers and court appearances her only link to the outside world.

She pleaded not guilty to charges of incitement, her lawyer Khin Maung Zaw said, adding she "seemed to be in good health," a week after she skipped a separate hearing because she felt unwell.

Each charge carries a maximum of three years in prison.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-mullah-baradars-influence-fades-as-pakistans-isi-backs-haqqani-network-report-414590">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban's Mullah Baradar's influence fades as Pakistan's ISI backs Haqqani Network: Report</a>

Ousted president Win Myint has also pleaded not guilty to incitement.&nbsp;

Tuesday saw the court hear prosecution testimony that Suu Kyi flouted coronavirus restrictions during elections her party won by a landslide last year, her lawyer said.

Next month she will face a new trial on corruption charges, and she has also been charged with violating a colonial-era secrecy law, although this has also yet to come to court.

Her NLD government was deposed by the military for alleged voter fraud during the 2020 polls, in which it trounced a political party aligned with the generals.&nbsp;

Security forces have killed more than 1,100 civilians since the putsch, according to a local monitoring group.&nbsp;

The military says the toll is much lower.

Myanmar's junta has put ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on trial for incitement, her lawyer said Tuesday, the latest in a list of charges that could see her jailed for decades.

Myanmar's junta has put ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on trial for incitement, her lawyer said Tuesday, the latest in a list of charges that could see her jailed for decades. Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy were deposed by the military in a February coup that sparked a mass uprising and a brutal junta crackdown on dissent. The Nobel laureate, 76, has been under house arrest ever since, with meetings with her lawyers and court appearances her only link to the outside world. She pleaded not guilty to charges of incitement, her lawyer Khin Maung Zaw said, adding she "seemed to be in good health," a week after she skipped a separate hearing because she felt unwell. Each charge carries a maximum of three years in prison. Also read | Taliban's Mullah Baradar's influence fades as Pakistan's ISI backs Haqqani Network: Report Ousted president Win Myint has also pleaded not guilty to incitement. Tuesday saw the court hear prosecution testimony that Suu Kyi flouted coronavirus restrictions during elections her party won by a landslide last year, her lawyer said. Next month she will face a new trial on corruption charges, and she has also been charged with violating a colonial-era secrecy law, although this has also yet to come to court. Her NLD government was deposed by the military for alleged voter fraud during the 2020 polls, in which it trounced a political party aligned with the generals. Security forces have killed more than 1,100 civilians since the putsch, according to a local monitoring group. The military says the toll is much lower.

Myanmar's Suu Kyi goes on trial for incitement, pleads not guilty

Myanmar&nbsp;anti-junta&nbsp;dissidents have carried out a&nbsp;bomb&nbsp;attack on security forces&nbsp;near&nbsp;Yangon, with several killed in an ensuing firefight, the military and media said.

The Southeast Asian nation has been in turmoil since the military toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government in February, sparking mass pro-democracy protests and a bloody crackdown by the military.&nbsp;

Various townships across&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;have formed so-called "people defence forces" to fight back against the&nbsp;junta, although the majority of clashes have been reported in rural areas.

Security forces were travelling through Khayan, a suburb of&nbsp;Myanmar's commercial hub&nbsp;Yangon&nbsp;on Friday when they were attacked with a homemade&nbsp;bomb, the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;said in a statement on Saturday.

"Both groups fired back and forth, a member of the security forces was injured," the statement said, adding that firearms and ammunition were confiscated after the clash.

"Some terrorists were... (killed), one of them was wounded."

Local media reported at least two dissidents were killed and one arrested.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/life-under-taliban-an-afghan-journalist-opens-up-414005">Also read |&nbsp;Life under Taliban: An Afghan journalist opens up&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Earlier this month a "National Unity Government" made up mostly of lawmakers affiliated with Suu Kyi's ousted party called for a "people's defensive war" and urged civilians to target&nbsp;junta&nbsp;assets.

Communications towers belonging to the military-owned Mytel company have been targeted across&nbsp;Myanmar.

Conflict has also intensified in the Sagaing and Magway regions, where locals this week accused the military of burning down homes and displacing thousands.

"The military has been crushing our region because of the local resistance forces," a 25-year-old woman from Magway's Gangaw township told AFP.

"I lost some of my friends... I am heartbroken because I had witnessed all their atrocities with my own eyes."

Another Gangaw township resident said in one of its hardest-hit&nbsp;villages, Namg Kar, scores of homes have been razed since September 10 -- a start-stop process over the past week as monsoon rains kept dousing the flames.

"They tried to burn down the whole village. But it was rainy season," said the resident, adding that Namg Kar's 4,000 residents have fled to a nearby jungle.

"They are afraid of the army as they could come back any time to the village," he said.

Images obtained by AFP showed Namg Kar villagers carrying buckets of water as smoke rose in the distance, while remains of burnt foundations smouldered.

The&nbsp;junta&nbsp;has not yet responded to a request for comment.

Myanmar anti-junta dissidents have carried out a bomb attack on security forces near Yangon, with several killed in an ensuing firefight, the military and media said.

Myanmar anti-junta dissidents have carried out a bomb attack on security forces near Yangon, with several killed in an ensuing firefight, the military and media said. The Southeast Asian nation has been in turmoil since the military toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government in February, sparking mass pro-democracy protests and a bloody crackdown by the military. Various townships across Myanmar have formed so-called "people defence forces" to fight back against the junta, although the majority of clashes have been reported in rural areas. Security forces were travelling through Khayan, a suburb of Myanmar's commercial hub Yangon on Friday when they were attacked with a homemade bomb, the junta said in a statement on Saturday. "Both groups fired back and forth, a member of the security forces was injured," the statement said, adding that firearms and ammunition were confiscated after the clash. "Some terrorists were... (killed), one of them was wounded." Local media reported at least two dissidents were killed and one arrested. Also read | Life under Taliban: An Afghan journalist opens up Earlier this month a "National Unity Government" made up mostly of lawmakers affiliated with Suu Kyi's ousted party called for a "people's defensive war" and urged civilians to target junta assets. Communications towers belonging to the military-owned Mytel company have been targeted across Myanmar. Conflict has also intensified in the Sagaing and Magway regions, where locals this week accused the military of burning down homes and displacing thousands. "The military has been crushing our region because of the local resistance forces," a 25-year-old woman from Magway's Gangaw township told AFP. "I lost some of my friends... I am heartbroken because I had witnessed all their atrocities with my own eyes." Another Gangaw township resident said in one of its hardest-hit villages, Namg Kar, scores of homes have been razed since September 10 -- a start-stop process over the past week as monsoon rains kept dousing the flames. "They tried to burn down the whole village. But it was rainy season," said the resident, adding that Namg Kar's 4,000 residents have fled to a nearby jungle. "They are afraid of the army as they could come back any time to the village," he said. Images obtained by AFP showed Namg Kar villagers carrying buckets of water as smoke rose in the distance, while remains of burnt foundations smouldered. The junta has not yet responded to a request for comment.

Myanmar military convoy hit by roadside bomb near Yangon

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a&nbsp;'haste course of action'. India was among&nbsp;the 36 countries, including Russia and China,&nbsp;who abstained. In south Asia,&nbsp;Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan abstained.&nbsp;

India's envoy to UN, TS&nbsp;Tirumurti&nbsp;speaking at UNGA said,&nbsp;"The fact that there is lack of support from all&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries as well as several&nbsp;countries in the region itself should, hopefully, serve as an eye opener to those,&nbsp;who choose to pursue a hasty course of action".&nbsp;

The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by US, France, UK, Germany with a majority of countries being&nbsp;European.&nbsp;It got the support of 119 countries with Belarus being the only country that voted against the resolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian envoy to UN pointed out, that "we find that our views have not been reflected in the draft being considered for the adoption" and reiterated the "consultative and constructive approach involving the&nbsp;neighbouring&nbsp;countries and the region remains important as the international community strives for the peaceful&nbsp;resolution of the issue."&nbsp;

Since the coup in Myanmar on February&nbsp;1, the country has seen an increased level of violence internally even&nbsp;as the issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council and the General Assembly.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the&nbsp;address by Envoy&nbsp;Tirumurti, he highlighted India's support to ASEAN initiative&nbsp;on Myanmar and called on&nbsp;'upholding&nbsp;the rule of law and release of detained&nbsp;leaders'.&nbsp;The ASEAN proposal calls cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process, humanitarian assistance.&nbsp;

Expressing&nbsp;‘deep concern', he&nbsp;'strongly condemned the use of violence&nbsp;and urged maximum restraint'. Explaining further he said,&nbsp;"We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and&nbsp;there can be no turning back on this."&nbsp;

Country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest and is facing a court case, seen as a farce created by the military leadership.&nbsp;

Importantly, India also mentioned its views on repatriation of Rohingya&nbsp;refugees with the envoy saying, "India has the highest stakes in resolving this issue at the earliest" and commended Bangladesh&nbsp;'for hosting a million displaced persons in its territory’.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India called for "safe, speedy and sustainable repatriation of the displaced persons" in Bangladesh to Rakhine state of Myanmar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a 'haste course of action'. India was among the 36 countries, including Russia and China, who abstained.

India on Friday abstained from a United Nations General Assembly resolution on Arms Embargo on Myanmar, calling the resolution a 'haste course of action'. India was among the 36 countries, including Russia and China, who abstained. In south Asia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan abstained. India's envoy to UN, TS Tirumurti speaking at UNGA said, "The fact that there is lack of support from all neighbouring countries as well as several countries in the region itself should, hopefully, serve as an eye opener to those, who choose to pursue a hasty course of action". The resolution was floated by Liechtenstein and was backed by US, France, UK, Germany with a majority of countries being European. It got the support of 119 countries with Belarus being the only country that voted against the resolution. The Indian envoy to UN pointed out, that "we find that our views have not been reflected in the draft being considered for the adoption" and reiterated the "consultative and constructive approach involving the neighbouring countries and the region remains important as the international community strives for the peaceful resolution of the issue." Since the coup in Myanmar on February 1, the country has seen an increased level of violence internally even as the issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council and the General Assembly. During the address by Envoy Tirumurti, he highlighted India's support to ASEAN initiative on Myanmar and called on 'upholding the rule of law and release of detained leaders'. The ASEAN proposal calls cessation of violence, special envoy of ASEAN chair for mediation of dialogue process, humanitarian assistance. Expressing ‘deep concern', he 'strongly condemned the use of violence and urged maximum restraint'. Explaining further he said, "We are firm that the path to democracy in Myanmar should continue to move forward through the process of democratic transition, which India has steadfastly supported and there can be no turning back on this." Country's charismatic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest and is facing a court case, seen as a farce created by the military leadership. Importantly, India also mentioned its views on repatriation of Rohingya refugees with the envoy saying, "India has the highest stakes in resolving this issue at the earliest" and commended Bangladesh 'for hosting a million displaced persons in its territory’. India called for "safe, speedy and sustainable repatriation of the displaced persons" in Bangladesh to Rakhine state of Myanmar.

India calls UN arms ban resolution on Myanmar as 'haste course of action' 

Norwegian telecom firm Telenor is selling its Myanmar operations to avoid European Union sanctions after "continued pressure" from Myanmar's military junta to activate intercept surveillance technology, the company's Asia head told Reuters.

Telenor&nbsp;announced in July it would sell its Myanmar unit to Lebanese investment firm M1 Group for $105 million, prompting an outcry from activists in the country who have been relying on its services for communications.

A Reuters investigation in May found telecom and internet service providers in Myanmar had been secretly ordered in the months before the junta's Feb. 1 coup to install invasive technology that would allow the army to freely eavesdrop on the communications of citizens.

"Since the military took over, it's been clear for us that our presence will require Telenor Myanmar to activate intercept equipment and technology for the use of Myanmar authorities," Asia head Jørgen Rostrup said in an interview.

Allowing the activation of the intercept technology would break the 2018 EU arms embargo against the Southeast Asian country, the executive added, stressing the need for legal or regulatory safeguards in Myanmar to protect human rights.

"Telenor Myanmar has not activated the equipment as of yet and will not do so voluntarily," he said. He declined to comment on whether the intercept technology had been installed at Telenor's operations in Myanmar.

Rostrup's comments represent the first time Telenor has addressed the impact of the intercept on its strategy since the junta seized power.

A spokesman for the Myanmar military did not answer calls for comment. Norway's industry ministry declined to comment, saying the sale of the unit was a decision for Telenor's board and management to make.

Many governments allow for what are commonly called 'lawful intercepts' to be used by law enforcement agencies to catch criminals. But in most democratic countries and even some authoritarian regimes, the technology is not ordinarily employed without any kind of legal process, cybersecurity experts say.

Myanmar activists have called for Telenor to halt or delay the sale. But Rostrup said Telenor felt it had no choice but to withdraw from the country as respecting the EU embargo meant it could not ensure the safety of its employees and allowing the intercept to be activated would be "a complete breach of our values and principles".

Reuters reported in July that senior executives at major telecommunications firms in Myanmar have been told by the junta that they must seek special authorisation to leave the country. The travel ban was followed by a second order instructing telecom firms to fully activate the intercept.

Telenor declined to comment on the travel ban.

Rostrup said Telenor had chosen M1 after finding it had "no direct relationships with authorities or the military in Myanmar".

The deal was submitted to Myanmar authorities for regulatory review recently, he said, adding that the process is expected to take 60 days.

Myanmar rights group told Reuters they believe the telecom is not doing enough.

"Telenor is trying to skirt its human rights responsibilities," said Justice for Myanmar spokesperson Yadanar Maung.

"Telenor must cancel the sale and come up with an exit strategy that does not risk the lives of the many Myanmar people who are struggling against the junta".

Prior to the coup, Telenor had been one of the largest foreign investors in the country with its Myanmar operations accounting for 7 per cent&nbsp;of its total earnings last year. It wrote off its $783 million investment in its Myanmar unit in May.

Norwegian telecom firm Telenor is selling its Myanmar operations to avoid European Union sanctions after "continued pressure" from Myanmar's military junta to activate intercept surveillance technology, the company's Asia head told Reuters.

Norwegian telecom firm Telenor is selling its Myanmar operations to avoid European Union sanctions after "continued pressure" from Myanmar's military junta to activate intercept surveillance technology, the company's Asia head told Reuters. Telenor announced in July it would sell its Myanmar unit to Lebanese investment firm M1 Group for $105 million, prompting an outcry from activists in the country who have been relying on its services for communications. A Reuters investigation in May found telecom and internet service providers in Myanmar had been secretly ordered in the months before the junta's Feb. 1 coup to install invasive technology that would allow the army to freely eavesdrop on the communications of citizens. "Since the military took over, it's been clear for us that our presence will require Telenor Myanmar to activate intercept equipment and technology for the use of Myanmar authorities," Asia head Jørgen Rostrup said in an interview. Allowing the activation of the intercept technology would break the 2018 EU arms embargo against the Southeast Asian country, the executive added, stressing the need for legal or regulatory safeguards in Myanmar to protect human rights. "Telenor Myanmar has not activated the equipment as of yet and will not do so voluntarily," he said. He declined to comment on whether the intercept technology had been installed at Telenor's operations in Myanmar. Rostrup's comments represent the first time Telenor has addressed the impact of the intercept on its strategy since the junta seized power. A spokesman for the Myanmar military did not answer calls for comment. Norway's industry ministry declined to comment, saying the sale of the unit was a decision for Telenor's board and management to make. Many governments allow for what are commonly called 'lawful intercepts' to be used by law enforcement agencies to catch criminals. But in most democratic countries and even some authoritarian regimes, the technology is not ordinarily employed without any kind of legal process, cybersecurity experts say. Myanmar activists have called for Telenor to halt or delay the sale. But Rostrup said Telenor felt it had no choice but to withdraw from the country as respecting the EU embargo meant it could not ensure the safety of its employees and allowing the intercept to be activated would be "a complete breach of our values and principles". Reuters reported in July that senior executives at major telecommunications firms in Myanmar have been told by the junta that they must seek special authorisation to leave the country. The travel ban was followed by a second order instructing telecom firms to fully activate the intercept. Telenor declined to comment on the travel ban. Rostrup said Telenor had chosen M1 after finding it had "no direct relationships with authorities or the military in Myanmar". The deal was submitted to Myanmar authorities for regulatory review recently, he said, adding that the process is expected to take 60 days. Myanmar rights group told Reuters they believe the telecom is not doing enough. "Telenor is trying to skirt its human rights responsibilities," said Justice for Myanmar spokesperson Yadanar Maung. "Telenor must cancel the sale and come up with an exit strategy that does not risk the lives of the many Myanmar people who are struggling against the junta". Prior to the coup, Telenor had been one of the largest foreign investors in the country with its Myanmar operations accounting for 7 per cent of its total earnings last year. It wrote off its $783 million investment in its Myanmar unit in May.

Norway's Telenor says Myanmar unit sale plan followed junta's pressure on surveillance tech

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

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

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

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

A villager and reports by independent media claimed that around 15-20 villagers, including several teenagers, have been killed in some of Myanmar’s deadliest fighting since July between government troops and resistance forces.

The fighting near Gangaw township in the north-western Magway region started on Thursday.&nbsp;

This was two days after a call for a nationwide uprising was issued by the National Unity Government, which is an opposition organisation that seeks to coordinate resistance to military rule.

The fighting took place when more than 100 troops arrived in four military vehicles.

This was to secure the area in Myin Thar and five other nearby villages, a resident told the Associated Press by phone. 
Also, members of a lightly armed village self-defence militia fired warning shots.&nbsp;

However, they could not stop the soldiers from entering the area and clashes continued after that, said the resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity to safeguard his security.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-police-capture-four-palestinian-jail-breakers-two-still-on-run-412251">Also read |&nbsp;Israeli police capture four Palestinian jail breakers; two still on run</a>

The National Unity Government’s call on Tuesday for a “people’s defensive war” has received an enthusiastic response on social media, but its actual impact on the ground is hard to measure.

The media sympathetic to the opposition reported an outburst of small-scale shootings and sabotage by the resistance, particularly the toppling of mobile phone transmission towers.

However, similar activities have been happening for several months and the details are difficult to independently verify.

The villager who have described the new fighting said that at least 11 members of the self-defence group were killed, according to what others in his village told him.&nbsp;

Photos of what has been described to be their bodies circulated widely Friday on the internet, and were clear enough to be identifiable to those familiar with them.

A villager and reports by independent media claimed that around 15-20 villagers, including several teenagers, have been killed in some of Myanmar’s deadliest fighting since July between government troops and resistance forces.

A villager and reports by independent media claimed that around 15-20 villagers, including several teenagers, have been killed in some of Myanmar’s deadliest fighting since July between government troops and resistance forces. The fighting near Gangaw township in the north-western Magway region started on Thursday. This was two days after a call for a nationwide uprising was issued by the National Unity Government, which is an opposition organisation that seeks to coordinate resistance to military rule. The fighting took place when more than 100 troops arrived in four military vehicles. This was to secure the area in Myin Thar and five other nearby villages, a resident told the Associated Press by phone. Also, members of a lightly armed village self-defence militia fired warning shots. However, they could not stop the soldiers from entering the area and clashes continued after that, said the resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity to safeguard his security. Also read | Israeli police capture four Palestinian jail breakers; two still on run The National Unity Government’s call on Tuesday for a “people’s defensive war” has received an enthusiastic response on social media, but its actual impact on the ground is hard to measure. The media sympathetic to the opposition reported an outburst of small-scale shootings and sabotage by the resistance, particularly the toppling of mobile phone transmission towers. However, similar activities have been happening for several months and the details are difficult to independently verify. The villager who have described the new fighting said that at least 11 members of the self-defence group were killed, according to what others in his village told him. Photos of what has been described to be their bodies circulated widely Friday on the internet, and were clear enough to be identifiable to those familiar with them.

Myanmar: Reports of 15 or more killed after nationwide uprising

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

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

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

Myanmar cell towers attacked after shadow government 'war' call

The acting President of Myanmar's shadow government Duwa Lashi La has called for revolt “in every village, town, and city in the entire country at the same time” and declared what he called a ”state of emergency.”

Myanmar's shadow government calls for revolt against military coup

Myanmar&nbsp;ethnic rebels have killed at least 23 government soldiers in days of fighting near the Chinese border, a spokesman for the group said Friday, in the latest clashes likely to worry powerful neighbour Beijing.

The country has been in turmoil since a military coup in February, which sparked huge pro-democracy protests, a bloody crackdown and renewed fighting in ethnic border areas.

Clashes broke out in Mongko, Shan state, on August 28 when troops tried to seize a base from the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the group's spokesman and local media reports said.

"They came to take our base. They were hurt a lot as we were waiting at the top of the mountain and they were at the bottom. We shot them as they were coming," an MNDAA spokesman told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Fifteen soldiers were killed on August 28 and eight more in renewed clashes on September 1, he said, adding one MNDAA fighter had been killed.

AFP has not been able to verify the casualty figures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-protest-in-afghanistans-herat-over-right-to-education-work-410216">Also read |&nbsp;Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work</a>

The military said Monday an officer and an undisclosed number of personnel from other ranks were killed in fighting with the MNDAA in Mongko on August 28.

It did not respond to questions on the alleged later clashes.

Myanmar&nbsp;has more than 20 ethnic rebel groups, many of which hold territory in the country's border regions.

A messy struggle over autonomy, as well as control of lucrative drug production and natural resources, has long pitted them against each other and the military.

Video published last month by Chinese state media CGTN claimed to show the military fighting the Kachin Independence Army, another group that operates in northern Shan state -- and "several other ethnic armed groups".

Stray bullets from the clash had landed in China and caused "damage to some buildings and fear among local residents", it added.

Many rebel groups in&nbsp;Myanmar's north share close cultural ties with China, speaking Chinese dialects and using the country's yuan currency.

In 2017, months of fighting between&nbsp;Myanmar's army and ethnic insurgents in the Kokang border region claimed dozens of lives and sent thousands fleeing from their homes, many to China.

Myanmar ethnic rebels have killed at least 23 government soldiers in days of fighting near the Chinese border, a spokesman for the group said Friday, in the latest clashes likely to worry powerful neighbour Beijing.

Myanmar ethnic rebels have killed at least 23 government soldiers in days of fighting near the Chinese border, a spokesman for the group said Friday, in the latest clashes likely to worry powerful neighbour Beijing. The country has been in turmoil since a military coup in February, which sparked huge pro-democracy protests, a bloody crackdown and renewed fighting in ethnic border areas. Clashes broke out in Mongko, Shan state, on August 28 when troops tried to seize a base from the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the group's spokesman and local media reports said. "They came to take our base. They were hurt a lot as we were waiting at the top of the mountain and they were at the bottom. We shot them as they were coming," an MNDAA spokesman told AFP on condition of anonymity. Fifteen soldiers were killed on August 28 and eight more in renewed clashes on September 1, he said, adding one MNDAA fighter had been killed. AFP has not been able to verify the casualty figures. Also read | Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work The military said Monday an officer and an undisclosed number of personnel from other ranks were killed in fighting with the MNDAA in Mongko on August 28. It did not respond to questions on the alleged later clashes. Myanmar has more than 20 ethnic rebel groups, many of which hold territory in the country's border regions. A messy struggle over autonomy, as well as control of lucrative drug production and natural resources, has long pitted them against each other and the military. Video published last month by Chinese state media CGTN claimed to show the military fighting the Kachin Independence Army, another group that operates in northern Shan state -- and "several other ethnic armed groups". Stray bullets from the clash had landed in China and caused "damage to some buildings and fear among local residents", it added. Many rebel groups in Myanmar's north share close cultural ties with China, speaking Chinese dialects and using the country's yuan currency. In 2017, months of fighting between Myanmar's army and ethnic insurgents in the Kokang border region claimed dozens of lives and sent thousands fleeing from their homes, many to China.

More than 20 Myanmar troops killed near China border, rebels say

Japan will grant asylum to a footballer from Myanmar's national team who raised an anti-coup salute during a match outside Tokyo and refused to fly home, reports said Friday.

Substitute goalkeeper&nbsp;Pyae&nbsp;Lyan&nbsp;Aung&nbsp;raised the three-finger salute as the national anthem played before a World Cup qualifier against Japan in May.

He then said he had decided to seek asylum in Japan because his life would be "in danger" if he returned to Myanmar.

The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the military's February coup, with over 900 killed and more than 7,000 arrested in a bloody crackdown, according to a local monitoring group.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/out-of-touch-north-koreas-state-tv-airs-tokyo-olympics-match-days-after-closing-ceremony-405095">Out of touch: North Korea's state TV airs Tokyo Olympics match days after closing ceremony</a>

The three-finger salute has frequently been used as a show of resistance by protesters during demonstrations.

Multiple major Japanese media outlets, citing anonymous sources, said the government had decided to grant the player refugee status.

The footballer's lawyer told AFP he was not aware of the outcome of the asylum claim, adding that his client was due to report to Osaka immigration office on August 20.

Public broadcaster NHK said Japan's immigration agency planned to certify the player's refugee status next week. The agency was not immediately reachable for comment.

Japan accepts just dozens of asylum applications each year.

But in May, the justice ministry said Myanmar residents already in the country would be able to extend their stays as an emergency measure.

Also in May, two officials at Myanmar's embassy in Tokyo were dismissed as the junta sacked diplomatic staff around the world who had opposed the coup.

The embassy told Japan's foreign ministry that diplomatic visas for the pair would no longer be valid -- but no action has been taken to revoke their visas, a ministry official told AFP on Friday.

Japan will grant asylum to a footballer from Myanmar's national team who raised an anti-coup salute during a match outside Tokyo and refused to fly home, reports said Friday.

Japan will grant asylum to a footballer from Myanmar's national team who raised an anti-coup salute during a match outside Tokyo and refused to fly home, reports said Friday. Substitute goalkeeper Pyae Lyan Aung raised the three-finger salute as the national anthem played before a World Cup qualifier against Japan in May. He then said he had decided to seek asylum in Japan because his life would be "in danger" if he returned to Myanmar. The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the military's February coup, with over 900 killed and more than 7,000 arrested in a bloody crackdown, according to a local monitoring group. ALSO READ | Out of touch: North Korea's state TV airs Tokyo Olympics match days after closing ceremony The three-finger salute has frequently been used as a show of resistance by protesters during demonstrations. Multiple major Japanese media outlets, citing anonymous sources, said the government had decided to grant the player refugee status. The footballer's lawyer told AFP he was not aware of the outcome of the asylum claim, adding that his client was due to report to Osaka immigration office on August 20. Public broadcaster NHK said Japan's immigration agency planned to certify the player's refugee status next week. The agency was not immediately reachable for comment. Japan accepts just dozens of asylum applications each year. But in May, the justice ministry said Myanmar residents already in the country would be able to extend their stays as an emergency measure. Also in May, two officials at Myanmar's embassy in Tokyo were dismissed as the junta sacked diplomatic staff around the world who had opposed the coup. The embassy told Japan's foreign ministry that diplomatic visas for the pair would no longer be valid -- but no action has been taken to revoke their visas, a ministry official told AFP on Friday.

Myanmar goalkeeper to be granted asylum in Japan: Reports

Japan&nbsp;will grant&nbsp;asylum&nbsp;to a footballer from&nbsp;Myanmar's national team who raised an anti-coup salute during a match outside Tokyo and refused to fly home,&nbsp;reports&nbsp;said Friday.

Substitute&nbsp;goalkeeper&nbsp;Pyae Lyan Aung raised the three-finger salute as the national anthem played before a World Cup qualifier against&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;in May.

He then said he had decided to seek&nbsp;asylum&nbsp;in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;because his life would be "in danger" if he returned to&nbsp;Myanmar.

The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the military's February coup, with over 900 killed and more than 7,000 arrested in a bloody crackdown, according to a local monitoring group.

The three-finger salute has frequently been used as a show of resistance by protesters during demonstrations.

Multiple major Japanese media outlets, citing anonymous sources, said the government had decided to grant the player refugee status.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-protesters-clash-with-pak-forces-after-man-dies-waiting-to-enter-spin-boldak-405191">Also read |&nbsp;Afghan protesters clash with Pak forces after man dies waiting to enter Spin Boldak</a>

The footballer's lawyer told AFP he was not aware of the outcome of the&nbsp;asylum&nbsp;claim, adding that his client was due to&nbsp;report&nbsp;to Osaka immigration office on August 20.

Public broadcaster NHK said&nbsp;Japan's immigration agency planned to certify the player's refugee status next week. The agency was not immediately reachable for comment.

Japan&nbsp;accepts just dozens of&nbsp;asylum&nbsp;applications each year.

But in May, the justice ministry said&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;residents already in the country would be able to extend their stays as an emergency measure.

Also in May, two officials at&nbsp;Myanmar's embassy in Tokyo were dismissed as the junta sacked diplomatic staff around the world who had opposed the coup.

The embassy told&nbsp;Japan's foreign ministry that diplomatic visas for the pair would no longer be valid -- but no action has been taken to revoke their visas, a ministry official told AFP on Friday.

Japan will grant asylum to a footballer from Myanmar's national team who raised an anti-coup salute during a match outside Tokyo and refused to fly home, reports said Friday. Substitute goalkeeper Pyae Lyan Aung raised the three-finger salute as the national anthem played before a World Cup qualifier against Japan in May. He then said he had decided to seek asylum in Japan because his life would be "in danger" if he returned to Myanmar. The Southeast Asian country has been in turmoil since the military's February coup, with over 900 killed and more than 7,000 arrested in a bloody crackdown, according to a local monitoring group. The three-finger salute has frequently been used as a show of resistance by protesters during demonstrations. Multiple major Japanese media outlets, citing anonymous sources, said the government had decided to grant the player refugee status. Also read | Afghan protesters clash with Pak forces after man dies waiting to enter Spin Boldak The footballer's lawyer told AFP he was not aware of the outcome of the asylum claim, adding that his client was due to report to Osaka immigration office on August 20. Public broadcaster NHK said Japan's immigration agency planned to certify the player's refugee status next week. The agency was not immediately reachable for comment. Japan accepts just dozens of asylum applications each year. But in May, the justice ministry said Myanmar residents already in the country would be able to extend their stays as an emergency measure. Also in May, two officials at Myanmar's embassy in Tokyo were dismissed as the junta sacked diplomatic staff around the world who had opposed the coup. The embassy told Japan's foreign ministry that diplomatic visas for the pair would no longer be valid -- but no action has been taken to revoke their visas, a ministry official told AFP on Friday.

More than 8000 Myanmar nationals have crossed into India since the country saw a coup on February 1, the Defence Ministry in a statement in Parliament said today.&nbsp; 
 
Over 5,500 individuals have been "pushed back," while over 2500 people have remained in India.&nbsp;

In response to a question, minister of state for Defence Minister Ajay Bhatt said, "At the Indo-Myanmar Border, a post-military coup which came into effect on 01.02.2021, 8486 Myanmar nationals/refugees crossed over into India, out of which 5796 were pushed back and 2690 are still in India."

This is the first time India has given details on the influx of refugees since the coup in the country. Many states in India's northeast have seen an influx of refugees from Myanmar following the coup. The Chief Minister of the Indian state of Mizoram, Zoramthanga, had even called on the centre to accept the incoming refugees from Myanmar. Remember, India is not a party to the UN Refugee Convention of 1951 and its 1967 Protocol and the issue is dealt with administratively by New Delhi.

Earlier this year, the Indian foreign ministry said that it was dealing with the situation "as per our laws and humanitarian considerations". In response to several questions about the situation in Myanmar, the spokesperson for India's ministry of external affairs, Arindam Bagchi, said, "We condemn any use of violence. We believe that the rule of law should prevail. We stand for the restoration of democracy in Myanmar. "

He reiterated New Delhi's stance, calling for the "release of political prisoners" and extending support to "any attempts at resolving the current situation, including through the efforts of ASEAN", pointing out further that, India has been engaging with its "international interlocutors and at the UN Security Council to play a balanced and constructive role."

More than 8000 Myanmar nationals have crossed into India since the country saw a coup on February 1, the Defence Ministry in a statement in Parliament said today.

More than 8000 Myanmar nationals have crossed into India since the country saw a coup on February 1, the Defence Ministry in a statement in Parliament said today. Over 5,500 individuals have been "pushed back," while over 2500 people have remained in India. In response to a question, minister of state for Defence Minister Ajay Bhatt said, "At the Indo-Myanmar Border, a post-military coup which came into effect on 01.02.2021, 8486 Myanmar nationals/refugees crossed over into India, out of which 5796 were pushed back and 2690 are still in India." This is the first time India has given details on the influx of refugees since the coup in the country. Many states in India's northeast have seen an influx of refugees from Myanmar following the coup. The Chief Minister of the Indian state of Mizoram, Zoramthanga, had even called on the centre to accept the incoming refugees from Myanmar. Remember, India is not a party to the UN Refugee Convention of 1951 and its 1967 Protocol and the issue is dealt with administratively by New Delhi. Earlier this year, the Indian foreign ministry said that it was dealing with the situation "as per our laws and humanitarian considerations". In response to several questions about the situation in Myanmar, the spokesperson for India's ministry of external affairs, Arindam Bagchi, said, "We condemn any use of violence. We believe that the rule of law should prevail. We stand for the restoration of democracy in Myanmar. " He reiterated New Delhi's stance, calling for the "release of political prisoners" and extending support to "any attempts at resolving the current situation, including through the efforts of ASEAN", pointing out further that, India has been engaging with its "international interlocutors and at the UN Security Council to play a balanced and constructive role."

More than 8000 Myanmar nationals have crossed into India since the coup: Defence Ministry

Protesters took to the streets of Myanmar to mark the 33rd anniversary of the 1988 pro-democracy uprising against the ruling military junta. Demonstrations took place in the main cities of Yangon, Mandalay, Sagaing, and others demanding restoration of the ousted elected government of the civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Myanmar protesters mark 33rd anniversary of 1988 uprising against military rule

Myanmar protesters on Sunday marked the anniversary of a 1988 pro-democracy uprising that brought Aung San Suu Kyi to prominence, with flash mobs and marches of defiance against the ruling junta.

The country has been in turmoil since the generals launched their February putsch and subsequent crackdown on dissent that has killed more than 900 people, according to a local monitoring group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-envoy-to-myanmar-calls-for-full-access-to-all-parties-403749">ASEAN envoy to Myanmar calls for full access to all parties</a>

But protesters remain undeterred, taking to the streets daily in lightning-quick rallies to demand the end to the State Administration Council -- as the junta's so-called "caretaker" government has dubbed itself.

On Sunday, flash mobs popped up across Yangon and second city Mandalay to commemorate the 1988 uprising -- a massive pro-democracy movement which the military violently quelled by opening fire on protesters and jailing thousands.

Following the calls of an online campaign, red-clad protesters on Sunday flashed an eight-finger salute and carried banners that read "Let's return the old blood debt of 1988 in 2021."

"In 1988, our country sacrificed a lot -- many people lost their lives. But the dictatorship is still alive," said Ko Sai Win, who joined a morning protest in Mandalay.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-says-plot-against-myanmar-un-envoy-fits-disturbing-pattern-403812">US says plot against Myanmar UN envoy fits 'disturbing pattern'</a>

"It is like a black shadow on our country."

The 1988 uprising heralded the rise of Suu Kyi, who had returned to Myanmar just before protests kicked off to care for her ailing mother.

Thanks to her stature as the daughter of General Aung San, who fought for independence against the British, and her rousing speeches, Suu Kyi emerged as a pro-democracy icon, later receiving the Nobel Peace Prize.

A shadow "National Unity Government" -- formed largely of MPs from her ousted party -- vowed in a statement Sunday to continue the fight for democracy.

British ambassador to Myanmar Pete&nbsp;Vowles also voiced support for the anti-junta movement.

"The UK stood by the people of Myanmar in 1988 and we stand by them today in 2021," he said in a video posted on the British embassy's official Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today we remember the 33rd anniversary of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/8888uprising?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#8888uprising</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Myanmar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Myanmar</a> - a nationwide pro-democracy movement, which began 🇲🇲 transition from military rule to democracy. 
Hear from our ambassador, <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteVowles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PeteVowles</a> here. <a href="https://t.co/bzzCZVHH1I">pic.twitter.com/bzzCZVHH1I</a>
— UK in Myanmar 🇬🇧 (@ukinmyanmar) <a href="https://twitter.com/ukinmyanmar/status/1424190743489306625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The junta has alleged widespread electoral fraud by Suu Kyi's NLD party to justify its power grab, and the Nobel laureate is facing an eclectic raft of charges including for the illegal possession of walkie-talkies and breaking coronavirus rules.

Myanmar protesters on Sunday marked the anniversary of a 1988 pro-democracy uprising that brought Aung San Suu Kyi to prominence, with flash mobs and marches of defiance against the ruling junta.

Myanmar protesters on Sunday marked the anniversary of a 1988 pro-democracy uprising that brought Aung San Suu Kyi to prominence, with flash mobs and marches of defiance against the ruling junta. The country has been in turmoil since the generals launched their February putsch and subsequent crackdown on dissent that has killed more than 900 people, according to a local monitoring group. Also read | ASEAN envoy to Myanmar calls for full access to all parties But protesters remain undeterred, taking to the streets daily in lightning-quick rallies to demand the end to the State Administration Council -- as the junta's so-called "caretaker" government has dubbed itself. On Sunday, flash mobs popped up across Yangon and second city Mandalay to commemorate the 1988 uprising -- a massive pro-democracy movement which the military violently quelled by opening fire on protesters and jailing thousands. Following the calls of an online campaign, red-clad protesters on Sunday flashed an eight-finger salute and carried banners that read "Let's return the old blood debt of 1988 in 2021." "In 1988, our country sacrificed a lot -- many people lost their lives. But the dictatorship is still alive," said Ko Sai Win, who joined a morning protest in Mandalay. Also read | US says plot against Myanmar UN envoy fits 'disturbing pattern' "It is like a black shadow on our country." The 1988 uprising heralded the rise of Suu Kyi, who had returned to Myanmar just before protests kicked off to care for her ailing mother. Thanks to her stature as the daughter of General Aung San, who fought for independence against the British, and her rousing speeches, Suu Kyi emerged as a pro-democracy icon, later receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. A shadow "National Unity Government" -- formed largely of MPs from her ousted party -- vowed in a statement Sunday to continue the fight for democracy. British ambassador to Myanmar Pete Vowles also voiced support for the anti-junta movement. "The UK stood by the people of Myanmar in 1988 and we stand by them today in 2021," he said in a video posted on the British embassy's official Twitter. Today we remember the 33rd anniversary of the #8888uprising in #Myanmar - a nationwide pro-democracy movement, which began 🇲🇲 transition from military rule to democracy. Hear from our ambassador, @PeteVowles here. pic.twitter.com/bzzCZVHH1I — UK in Myanmar 🇬🇧 (@ukinmyanmar) August 8, 2021 × The junta has alleged widespread electoral fraud by Suu Kyi's NLD party to justify its power grab, and the Nobel laureate is facing an eclectic raft of charges including for the illegal possession of walkie-talkies and breaking coronavirus rules.

Myanmar protesters mark pivotal 1988 uprising anniversary

The United States on Saturday condemned a thwarted plot to attack Myanmar's UN ambassador in New York, saying it fits a "disturbing pattern" of authoritarian leaders and their supporters seeking to persecute opponents around the world.

Two Myanmar citizens have been arrested in New York state for plotting with an arms dealer in Thailand - who sells weapons to the Burmese military - to kill or injure Myanmar's UN ambassador, US authorities said on Friday.

Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, who represents Myanmar's elected civilian government which was overthrown by the military in February, told Reuters on Wednesday that a threat had been made against him and US authorities had stepped up his security.

The US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said on Saturday that the threat "fits a disturbing pattern of authoritarian leaders and their supporters reaching across the globe ... to persecute and repress journalists, activists, and others who dare speak or stand against them."

Thomas-Greenfield cited Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, a Belarusian athlete who refused to return home from the Tokyo Olympics and sought refuge in Poland, and a thwarted plot by several Iranians to kidnap a New York journalist and rights activist who was critical of Iran.

"These are only the most recent acts of transnational repression, and they must be met with the condemnation of the world and with full and certain accountability," Thomas-Greenfield said in a statement.

The United States on Saturday condemned a thwarted plot to attack Myanmar's UN ambassador in New York, saying it fits a "disturbing pattern" of authoritarian leaders and their supporters seeking to persecute opponents around the world.

The United States on Saturday condemned a thwarted plot to attack Myanmar's UN ambassador in New York, saying it fits a "disturbing pattern" of authoritarian leaders and their supporters seeking to persecute opponents around the world. Two Myanmar citizens have been arrested in New York state for plotting with an arms dealer in Thailand - who sells weapons to the Burmese military - to kill or injure Myanmar's UN ambassador, US authorities said on Friday. Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, who represents Myanmar's elected civilian government which was overthrown by the military in February, told Reuters on Wednesday that a threat had been made against him and US authorities had stepped up his security. The US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said on Saturday that the threat "fits a disturbing pattern of authoritarian leaders and their supporters reaching across the globe ... to persecute and repress journalists, activists, and others who dare speak or stand against them." Thomas-Greenfield cited Krystsina Tsimanouskaya, a Belarusian athlete who refused to return home from the Tokyo Olympics and sought refuge in Poland, and a thwarted plot by several Iranians to kidnap a New York journalist and rights activist who was critical of Iran. "These are only the most recent acts of transnational repression, and they must be met with the condemnation of the world and with full and certain accountability," Thomas-Greenfield said in a statement.

US says plot against Myanmar UN envoy fits 'disturbing pattern'

The special envoy for Myanmar appointed by Southeast Asia's regional bloc to resolve the coup-hit nation's political crisis asked on Saturday for full access to all parties.&nbsp;

Several months of internal wrangling led to the appointment of&nbsp;Brunei's Second Foreign Minister Erywan Yusof&nbsp;by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-envoys-meet-myanmar-junta-leader-to-press-for-dialogue-389555">ASEAN envoys meet Myanmar junta leader to press for dialogue</a>

Myanmar, an ASEAN Member state, has been in chaos since February when the military junta ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government,&nbsp;alleging that the government had committed electoral fraud during 2020.

As per a local monitoring group, more than 900 people have been killed in violent crackdowns of protests that have erupted since the coup.

According to Yusof, his first visit to Myanmar as a special envoy was "in the pipeline" but he did not offer a date.

He said he would engage in "more substantive discussions" on issues such as "cessation of violence, dialogue, and mediation" during his next visit.

In addition, he&nbsp;emphasised,&nbsp;"the importance for the special envoy to be given full access to all parties concerned in Myanmar in order for meaningful progress to be made".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-envoy-alerts-un-to-alleged-massacre-403073" hreflang="en">Myanmar envoy alerts UN to alleged 'massacre'</a>

Since the coup, he has already been to Myanmar once for ASEAN, where he met with junta deputy chief Min Aung Hlaing on June 4.

Aung Hlaing attended an ASEAN meeting in April during which a "consensus statement" was issued calling for an immediate end to violence and the appointment of an envoy.

According to Yusof, efforts are also underway to help authorities combat a Coronavirus outbreak in Myanmar by getting more emergency aid into the country.

In extending a timeline announced shortly after the coup, Min Aung Hlaing recently promised to hold elections&nbsp;and lift a state of emergency by&nbsp;August 2023.

The special envoy for Myanmar appointed by Southeast Asia's regional bloc to resolve the coup-hit nation's political crisis asked on Saturday for full access to all parties.

The special envoy for Myanmar appointed by Southeast Asia's regional bloc to resolve the coup-hit nation's political crisis asked on Saturday for full access to all parties. Several months of internal wrangling led to the appointment of Brunei's Second Foreign Minister Erywan Yusof by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Also read | ASEAN envoys meet Myanmar junta leader to press for dialogue Myanmar, an ASEAN Member state, has been in chaos since February when the military junta ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government, alleging that the government had committed electoral fraud during 2020. As per a local monitoring group, more than 900 people have been killed in violent crackdowns of protests that have erupted since the coup. According to Yusof, his first visit to Myanmar as a special envoy was "in the pipeline" but he did not offer a date. He said he would engage in "more substantive discussions" on issues such as "cessation of violence, dialogue, and mediation" during his next visit. In addition, he emphasised, "the importance for the special envoy to be given full access to all parties concerned in Myanmar in order for meaningful progress to be made". Also read | Myanmar envoy alerts UN to alleged 'massacre' Since the coup, he has already been to Myanmar once for ASEAN, where he met with junta deputy chief Min Aung Hlaing on June 4. Aung Hlaing attended an ASEAN meeting in April during which a "consensus statement" was issued calling for an immediate end to violence and the appointment of an envoy. According to Yusof, efforts are also underway to help authorities combat a Coronavirus outbreak in Myanmar by getting more emergency aid into the country. In extending a timeline announced shortly after the coup, Min Aung Hlaing recently promised to hold elections and lift a state of emergency by August 2023.

ASEAN envoy to Myanmar calls for full access to all parties

The United Nations said Friday it urgently needed funds to feed people in Myanmar amid fears that up to 6.2 million could be plunged into hunger by October.

The UN's World Food Programme said it was 70 per cent short of the $86 million needed over the next six months, as the country goes through multiple crises.

A major wave of Covid-19 infections is surging through Myanmar, compounding hunger, rising food and fuel prices, political unrest, violence and displacement, the WFP said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-envoy-alerts-un-to-alleged-massacre-403073" hreflang="en">Myanmar envoy alerts UN to alleged 'massacre'</a>

"We have seen hunger spreading further and deeper in Myanmar," said the WFP's Myanmar country director Stephen Anderson.

"Nearly 90 percent of households living in slum-like settlements around Yangon say they have to borrow money to buy food; incomes have been badly affected for many."

Myanmar has been in chaos and its economy paralysed since the military seized power from civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1.

The country has experienced mass protests and a brutal military response since the coup.

The WFP launched an urban food response in May, targeting two million people in Yangon and Mandalay, Myanmar's two biggest cities.

So far this year, 1.25 million people in Myanmar have received WFP food, cash and nutrition assistance.

Speaking to reporters in Geneva via video-link from the capital Naypyidaw, Anderson said the third wave of Covid-19 hitting the country was "practically like a tsunami", creating "major havoc" and having a severe impact on people's lives.

"The people of Myanmar are facing their most difficult moment in living memory. It is critically important for us to be able to access to all those in need and receive the funding to provide them with humanitarian assistance," he said.

The United Nations said Friday it urgently needed funds to feed people in Myanmar amid fears that up to 6.2 million could be plunged into hunger by October. The UN's World Food Programme said it was 70 per cent short of the $86 million needed over the next six months, as the country goes through multiple crises.

The United Nations said Friday it urgently needed funds to feed people in Myanmar amid fears that up to 6.2 million could be plunged into hunger by October. The UN's World Food Programme said it was 70 per cent short of the $86 million needed over the next six months, as the country goes through multiple crises. A major wave of Covid-19 infections is surging through Myanmar, compounding hunger, rising food and fuel prices, political unrest, violence and displacement, the WFP said. Also read | Myanmar envoy alerts UN to alleged 'massacre' "We have seen hunger spreading further and deeper in Myanmar," said the WFP's Myanmar country director Stephen Anderson. "Nearly 90 percent of households living in slum-like settlements around Yangon say they have to borrow money to buy food; incomes have been badly affected for many." Myanmar has been in chaos and its economy paralysed since the military seized power from civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. The country has experienced mass protests and a brutal military response since the coup. The WFP launched an urban food response in May, targeting two million people in Yangon and Mandalay, Myanmar's two biggest cities. So far this year, 1.25 million people in Myanmar have received WFP food, cash and nutrition assistance. Speaking to reporters in Geneva via video-link from the capital Naypyidaw, Anderson said the third wave of Covid-19 hitting the country was "practically like a tsunami", creating "major havoc" and having a severe impact on people's lives. "The people of Myanmar are facing their most difficult moment in living memory. It is critically important for us to be able to access to all those in need and receive the funding to provide them with humanitarian assistance," he said.

UN warns of growing hunger in Myanmar

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet virtually with Southeast Asian officials every day next week, a senior state department official said on Saturday, as Washington seeks to show the region it’s a US priority while also addressing the crisis in Myanmar.

The top US diplomat will attend virtual meetings for five consecutive days, including annual meetings of the 10 foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other nations and separate meetings of the Lower Mekong subregion countries Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/singapore-says-asean-aims-to-speed-up-plan-to-end-myanmar-crisis-396602">Singapore says ASEAN aims to speed up plan to end Myanmar crisis</a>

"I think it's a clear demonstration of our commitment to the region," said the official, who briefed Reuters on the condition of anonymity.

In recent years top US officials have not always attended&nbsp;ASEAN&nbsp;meetings and have sometimes sent more junior officials to the region's summits.

The virtual meetings come after the Biden administration in its early days was seen as paying little attention to the region of more than 600 million people, which is often overshadowed by neighbouring economic giant China, which the administration sees as its major foreign policy challenge.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-to-attend-asean-meetings-402222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But that has been partly addressed by recent visits to the region. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman visited Indonesia, Cambodia and Thailand in May and June, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was in Vietnam and the Philippines this week, and Vice President Kamala Harris is set to visit Singapore and Vietnam.

"That steady flow of high-level engagement is going to pay dividends. It's noticed," the official said, adding that countries in the region "notice when we don't show up and that's when you start hearing some complaining maybe about not taking them seriously or taking them for granted."

The official said that donations of COVID-19 vaccines to the region had been a "game changer in terms of how our image is perceived."

On Sunday, the United States shipped 3 million doses of the Moderna <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccine</a> to Vietnam and it has sent doses to other Southeast Asian countries too, but an agreement it reached in March with Japan and Australia and India to provide a billion doses to the region stalled due to an Indian export ban

By mid-next week the United States will have donated 23 million doses to countries in the region, which is experiencing a surge of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> with vaccination rates well below countries in the West, the official said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-ruler-pledges-elections-asean-cooperation-in-speech-six-months-after-coup-402105">Myanmar army ruler pledges elections, ASEAN cooperation in speech six months after coup</a>

But none of those doses have gone to Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, where military generals staged a coup on Feb. 1 and detained elected leaders including Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking sanctions from Washington and other Western capitals.

The meetings next week will see Blinken in the same virtual meetings as representatives of Myanmar’s military government, but the official said rather than bestowing legitimacy on those officials, this was an opportunity to get messages to the military government.

"We're not prepared to walk away from&nbsp;ASEAN&nbsp;because of the bad behavior of a group of generals in Burma," the official said, adding that US officials were also engaging with the National Unity Government that opposes the military government there.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet virtually with Southeast Asian officials every day next week, a senior state department official said on Saturday, as Washington seeks to show the region it’s a US priority while also addressing the crisis in Myanmar.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet virtually with Southeast Asian officials every day next week, a senior state department official said on Saturday, as Washington seeks to show the region it’s a US priority while also addressing the crisis in Myanmar. The top US diplomat will attend virtual meetings for five consecutive days, including annual meetings of the 10 foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other nations and separate meetings of the Lower Mekong subregion countries Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand. Also read | Singapore says ASEAN aims to speed up plan to end Myanmar crisis "I think it's a clear demonstration of our commitment to the region," said the official, who briefed Reuters on the condition of anonymity. In recent years top US officials have not always attended ASEAN meetings and have sometimes sent more junior officials to the region's summits. The virtual meetings come after the Biden administration in its early days was seen as paying little attention to the region of more than 600 million people, which is often overshadowed by neighbouring economic giant China, which the administration sees as its major foreign policy challenge. But that has been partly addressed by recent visits to the region. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman visited Indonesia, Cambodia and Thailand in May and June, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was in Vietnam and the Philippines this week, and Vice President Kamala Harris is set to visit Singapore and Vietnam. "That steady flow of high-level engagement is going to pay dividends. It's noticed," the official said, adding that countries in the region "notice when we don't show up and that's when you start hearing some complaining maybe about not taking them seriously or taking them for granted." The official said that donations of COVID-19 vaccines to the region had been a "game changer in terms of how our image is perceived." On Sunday, the United States shipped 3 million doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to Vietnam and it has sent doses to other Southeast Asian countries too, but an agreement it reached in March with Japan and Australia and India to provide a billion doses to the region stalled due to an Indian export ban By mid-next week the United States will have donated 23 million doses to countries in the region, which is experiencing a surge of the coronavirus with vaccination rates well below countries in the West, the official said. Also read | Myanmar army ruler pledges elections, ASEAN cooperation in speech six months after coup But none of those doses have gone to Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, where military generals staged a coup on Feb. 1 and detained elected leaders including Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking sanctions from Washington and other Western capitals. The meetings next week will see Blinken in the same virtual meetings as representatives of Myanmar’s military government, but the official said rather than bestowing legitimacy on those officials, this was an opportunity to get messages to the military government. "We're not prepared to walk away from ASEAN because of the bad behavior of a group of generals in Burma," the official said, adding that US officials were also engaging with the National Unity Government that opposes the military government there.

US top diplomat Blinken to court Southeast Asia in virtual meetings next week

Myanmar's military ruler Min Aung Hlaing on Sunday again promised new multi-party elections and said his government is ready to work with any special envoy named by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). 
 
He spoke in a televised address six months after the army seized power from a civilian government after disputed elections won by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's ruling party, which he described as "terrorists". 
 
"Myanmar is ready to work on ASEAN cooperation within the ASEAN framework including the dialogue with the ASEAN Special Envoy in Myanmar," Min Aung Hlaing said. 
 
ASEAN foreign ministers are to meet on Monday, when diplomats say they aim to finalise a special envoy tasked with ending violence and promoting dialogue between the junta and its opponents. 
 
The army seized power on February&nbsp;1&nbsp;from the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi after her ruling party won elections that the military argued were tainted by fraud. The country's electoral commission dismissed this allegation.

Myanmar's military ruler Min Aung Hlaing on Sunday again promised new multi-party elections and said his government is ready to work with any special envoy named by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Myanmar's military ruler Min Aung Hlaing on Sunday again promised new multi-party elections and said his government is ready to work with any special envoy named by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He spoke in a televised address six months after the army seized power from a civilian government after disputed elections won by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's ruling party, which he described as "terrorists". "Myanmar is ready to work on ASEAN cooperation within the ASEAN framework including the dialogue with the ASEAN Special Envoy in Myanmar," Min Aung Hlaing said. ASEAN foreign ministers are to meet on Monday, when diplomats say they aim to finalise a special envoy tasked with ending violence and promoting dialogue between the junta and its opponents. The army seized power on February 1 from the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi after her ruling party won elections that the military argued were tainted by fraud. The country's electoral commission dismissed this allegation.

Myanmar army ruler pledges elections, ASEAN cooperation in speech six months after coup

Britain's UN ambassador has warned that half of Myanmar's population could be infected with COVID-19 in the next two weeks. This comes a day after Myanmar asked the international community to help Myanmar curb the rising COVID cases in the country. The country has been in political chaos in the last few weeks. The people are protesting against the coup that overthrew the civilian government and seized the authority in the country.

Half of Myanmar's population could be infected to COVID in two weeks, warns Britain's UN ambassador

Officials said Tuesday at least six Rohingya were killed and thousands more were relocated to refugee camps in Bangladesh's southeast after heavy rains triggered landslides and flooding in hilly settlements.

A piece of a hill crushed bamboo and tarpaulin shanties of Rohingya families in the Balukhali camp, killing five including three children, refugee commissioner Shah Rezwan Hayat said.

He added that all the streams in the camps were raging due to flash floods and that another Rohingya child drowned in a nearby stream in the Palongkhali refugee camp.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-at-least-6-people-killed-after-monsoon-rains-trigger-landslides-401164/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The landslides were caused by days of heavy rain.&nbsp;Several Rohingya families have also been relocated within camps to ensure their safety,&nbsp;he said adding&nbsp;that two injured people have been sent to nearby hospitals.

In August 2017, 740,000 Rohingya fled their homes in Rakhine state, escaping a brutal clampdown by Myanmar security forces.

Cox's Bazar, the district bordering Myanmar in Bangladesh's southeastern region, is home to nearly one million of these Rohingya living in overcrowded camps.

The monsoon season is always a risky time of year for thousands of these refugees, especially those who live in valleys inside the 7,000-acre (2,832-hectare) settlements.

The deaths of two refugees were caused by separate landslides during heavy rain last month.

(With inputs from agencies)

Officials said Tuesday at least six Rohingya were killed and thousands more were relocated to refugee camps in Bangladesh's southeast after heavy rains triggered landslides and flooding in hilly settlements.

Officials said Tuesday at least six Rohingya were killed and thousands more were relocated to refugee camps in Bangladesh's southeast after heavy rains triggered landslides and flooding in hilly settlements. A piece of a hill crushed bamboo and tarpaulin shanties of Rohingya families in the Balukhali camp, killing five including three children, refugee commissioner Shah Rezwan Hayat said. He added that all the streams in the camps were raging due to flash floods and that another Rohingya child drowned in a nearby stream in the Palongkhali refugee camp. The landslides were caused by days of heavy rain. Several Rohingya families have also been relocated within camps to ensure their safety, he said adding that two injured people have been sent to nearby hospitals. In August 2017, 740,000 Rohingya fled their homes in Rakhine state, escaping a brutal clampdown by Myanmar security forces. Cox's Bazar, the district bordering Myanmar in Bangladesh's southeastern region, is home to nearly one million of these Rohingya living in overcrowded camps. The monsoon season is always a risky time of year for thousands of these refugees, especially those who live in valleys inside the 7,000-acre (2,832-hectare) settlements. The deaths of two refugees were caused by separate landslides during heavy rain last month. (With inputs from agencies)

Landslides in Bangladesh kill six Rohingyas, forces thousands to flee

Junta authorities in Myanmar are seeking help from the international community to tackle the coronavirus, state media said Wednesday, as the impoverished country looks beyond ally China in its struggle to beat back a new wave.

The nation has been in turmoil since the military took power in February, with many hospitals ill-equipped to cope with a surging caseload after many medical staff walked out in protest at the coup.

Stay-at-home orders affecting millions have failed to halt the surge, with crematoriums working at capacity and volunteers working to bring out the bodies of people who have died in their homes.

Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing told a "coordination meeting to beef up cooperation with the international community" that Myanmar should seek money from a Covid-19 response fund set up by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Efforts were being made to work with ASEAN "and friendly countries", the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported, without giving details.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-anti-coup-fighters-retreat-from-town-as-us-makes-appeal-385349">Also read |&nbsp;Myanmar anti-coup fighters retreat from town as US makes appeal&nbsp;</a>

Just under 5,000 new cases of Covid-19 were reported Wednesday -- up from around 50 per day in early May -- but analysts say the real toll is likely much higher.&nbsp;

Around 1.75 million people have so far been vaccinated according to the State Administration Council -- as the junta dubs itself -- out of a population of 54 million.

Last week a batch of donated Sinopharm doses arrived from China, junta authorities said, but they would be prioritised for those living along the China-Myanmar border.

China has also supplied more than 10,000 shots to a rebel group operating near its southern frontier in Myanmar, as Beijing seeks to halt an influx of cases from the coup-wracked country.

The junta has ordered a total of four million vaccine doses from China, it said earlier this month, and Beijing will donate a further two million.

A shipment of 1.5 million doses also arrived from India earlier this year.

Junta authorities in Myanmar are seeking help from the international community to tackle the coronavirus, state media said Wednesday, as the impoverished country looks beyond ally China in its struggle to beat back a new wave.

Junta authorities in Myanmar are seeking help from the international community to tackle the coronavirus, state media said Wednesday, as the impoverished country looks beyond ally China in its struggle to beat back a new wave. The nation has been in turmoil since the military took power in February, with many hospitals ill-equipped to cope with a surging caseload after many medical staff walked out in protest at the coup. Stay-at-home orders affecting millions have failed to halt the surge, with crematoriums working at capacity and volunteers working to bring out the bodies of people who have died in their homes. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing told a "coordination meeting to beef up cooperation with the international community" that Myanmar should seek money from a Covid-19 response fund set up by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Efforts were being made to work with ASEAN "and friendly countries", the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported, without giving details. Also read | Myanmar anti-coup fighters retreat from town as US makes appeal Just under 5,000 new cases of Covid-19 were reported Wednesday -- up from around 50 per day in early May -- but analysts say the real toll is likely much higher. Around 1.75 million people have so far been vaccinated according to the State Administration Council -- as the junta dubs itself -- out of a population of 54 million. Last week a batch of donated Sinopharm doses arrived from China, junta authorities said, but they would be prioritised for those living along the China-Myanmar border. China has also supplied more than 10,000 shots to a rebel group operating near its southern frontier in Myanmar, as Beijing seeks to halt an influx of cases from the coup-wracked country. The junta has ordered a total of four million vaccine doses from China, it said earlier this month, and Beijing will donate a further two million. A shipment of 1.5 million doses also arrived from India earlier this year.

Myanmar seeks international help as COVID-19 bites

"I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood," said Myanmar's Win Htet Oo, who was supposed to make his Olympic debut as the country's lone swimmer. While nations across the globe are cheering for their players as they win medals at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, a few would remember the sacrifice Oo made after the Myanmar military seized power in a coup in February, earlier this year.&nbsp;

Amid the Tokyo Olympics frenzy and fanfare, it is heartbreaking to see a well-deserved athlete being absent due to political reasons. Win Htet Oo had qualified for the 50m freestyle swimming competition and is considered one of Myanmar's top swimmers. However, the 26-year-old abandoned his dreams of&nbsp;representing his country at the Olympics and said he was no longer interested in going to Tokyo in protest against Myanmar's junta.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympics-athletes-must-wear-masks-at-games-apart-from-podium-moment-400491" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment</a>

While taking to Facebook, Oo wrote, "To accept the MOC (Myanmar Olympic Committee) as it is currently led is to recognise the legitimacy of a murderous regime. I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood."

The swimmer had also said that after the February coup he knew he couldn't go to the Olympic Games. So, it was an easy decision to make, even after training for two decades for the chance to go to the Olympics. "I just couldn't bring myself to attend, if [the MOC] was being controlled by the military," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%20Olympics:%20Silver%20medallist%20Mirabai%20Chanu's%20special%20Olympic%20earrings%20stole%20the%20show">Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" height="663" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D330108195152082%26id%3D105219457640958&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" width="500"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Myanmar in political turmoil ever since the 76-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who was democratically elected as a civilian leader of Myanmar, was detained on February 1 in a coup d'état. The coup was carried out by Myanmar armed forces and Suu Kyi was slapped with a series of charges. Several other members of her political party, journalists and other prominent figures were also arrested. The coup ignited deadly protests across the country and hundreds of people have lost their lives. Besides protests and nationwide civil disobedience, the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to ravage as the situation remains dire in the county.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-from-pv-sindhu-to-deepika-kumari-top-indian-athletes-to-look-out-for-400283">Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for!</a>&nbsp;

"I wanted to show Myanmar people that athletes can take part in the civil disobedience movement," he told AFP, speaking from Melbourne, Australia. "The image of me walking behind the flag in the Parade of Nations and smiling - pretending everything was all right - quite frankly disgusted me. It would be a propaganda exercise, some sort of way to tell the world that everything is fine in Myanmar," he added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
It is worth noting that Oo wrote to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in March, citing the ongoing violence in Myanmar and asking to compete as an Independent Olympic Athlete. However, the IOC said Win Htet Oo did not appear to have a place for the Games, as awarded via the world swimming body FINA's qualifying system.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Oo wished the athletes who took part in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics as Myanmar made its seventeenth appearance at the Olympics.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" height="645" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D354765622686339%26id%3D105219457640958&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" width="500"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">here</a>&nbsp;for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

"I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood," said Myanmar's Win Htet Oo, who was supposed to make his Olympic debut as the country's lone swimmer.

"I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood," said Myanmar's Win Htet Oo, who was supposed to make his Olympic debut as the country's lone swimmer. While nations across the globe are cheering for their players as they win medals at the Tokyo Olympics 2020, a few would remember the sacrifice Oo made after the Myanmar military seized power in a coup in February, earlier this year. Amid the Tokyo Olympics frenzy and fanfare, it is heartbreaking to see a well-deserved athlete being absent due to political reasons. Win Htet Oo had qualified for the 50m freestyle swimming competition and is considered one of Myanmar's top swimmers. However, the 26-year-old abandoned his dreams of representing his country at the Olympics and said he was no longer interested in going to Tokyo in protest against Myanmar's junta. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Athletes 'must' wear masks at Games apart from podium moment While taking to Facebook, Oo wrote, "To accept the MOC (Myanmar Olympic Committee) as it is currently led is to recognise the legitimacy of a murderous regime. I shall not march in the (opening ceremony's) Parade of Nations under a flag steeped in my people's blood." The swimmer had also said that after the February coup he knew he couldn't go to the Olympic Games. So, it was an easy decision to make, even after training for two decades for the chance to go to the Olympics. "I just couldn't bring myself to attend, if [the MOC] was being controlled by the military," he added. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show × Myanmar in political turmoil ever since the 76-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who was democratically elected as a civilian leader of Myanmar, was detained on February 1 in a coup d'état. The coup was carried out by Myanmar armed forces and Suu Kyi was slapped with a series of charges. Several other members of her political party, journalists and other prominent figures were also arrested. The coup ignited deadly protests across the country and hundreds of people have lost their lives. Besides protests and nationwide civil disobedience, the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to ravage as the situation remains dire in the county. IN PICS: Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! "I wanted to show Myanmar people that athletes can take part in the civil disobedience movement," he told AFP, speaking from Melbourne, Australia. "The image of me walking behind the flag in the Parade of Nations and smiling - pretending everything was all right - quite frankly disgusted me. It would be a propaganda exercise, some sort of way to tell the world that everything is fine in Myanmar," he added. It is worth noting that Oo wrote to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in March, citing the ongoing violence in Myanmar and asking to compete as an Independent Olympic Athlete. However, the IOC said Win Htet Oo did not appear to have a place for the Games, as awarded via the world swimming body FINA's qualifying system. Meanwhile, Oo wished the athletes who took part in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics as Myanmar made its seventeenth appearance at the Olympics. × Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

Tokyo 2020: When Myanmar swimmer ditched Olympic dreams in protest against junta ruling

Angered by doctors' support for anti-junta protests,&nbsp;Myanmar's military has arrested several doctors treating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> patients independently, colleagues and media said, as the health system struggles to cope with a record wave of infections.

Since the military overthrew the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in February, the ensuing turmoil and protests have thrown&nbsp;Myanmar's COVID-19 response into chaos, as activists say scores of doctors have been arrested for their prominent role in a civil disobedience movement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-response-runs-underground-in-junta-ruled-myanmar-398915">COVID-19 response runs underground in junta-ruled Myanmar</a>

Myanmar&nbsp;registered on Thursday over 6,000 new COVID-19 infections after reporting 286 deaths a day earlier, both record highs. Medics and funeral services say the real death toll is far higher, with crematoriums unable to keep pace.

To help people who either refuse to go to a state hospital, because of opposition to the military, or find hospitals are too strapped to treat them, some doctors participating in the anti-junta campaign have offered free medical advice over the telephone, and visited the sick at home in some cases.

But according to doctors and media reports in the past few weeks nine volunteer doctors offering tele-medicine and other services have been detained by the military in&nbsp;Myanmar's two largest cities - Yangon and Mandalay.

The information team of the army-led State Administration Council issued a statement denying reports that five doctors had been arrested in Yangon, but omitted any reference to the alleged arrests in Mandalay, which included doctors active in the civil disobedience movement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-covid-rages-in-myanmar-army-hoards-oxygen-doctors-say-398574">As COVID rages in Myanmar, army hoards oxygen, doctors say</a>

All telephone calls from Reuters to a spokesman for the junta were unanswered.

A doctor, who asked not to be named for fear of being targeted by the military authorities, said four of his colleagues from the "Medical Family - Mandalay group" had been arrested.

They included Kyaw Kyaw Thet, who had been tutoring medical students, and senior surgeon Thet Htay, who the doctor said witnesses had seen handcuffed and bruised before being led away on July 16.

Their group was set up to advise virus sufferers over the telephone how to breathe, how to use an oxygen concentrator, which medicines to buy and how to administer them.

"We have been giving medical treatment to hundreds of patients per day," the doctor said, adding that many more of those patients could have died if they had not been attended to.

Media reports from Yangon, which have been denied by the junta, said three doctors from a COVID-19 response group were arrested after being lured to a home by soldiers pretending to need treatment. The junta also denied&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;News portal reportthat security forces had arrested two doctors during a followup raid on their offices in the North Dagon district of Yangon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/health-volunteers-provide-hope-to-covid-infected-myanmar-amid-another-outbreak-397441">Health volunteers provide hope to Covid-infected Myanmar amid another outbreak</a>

The National Unity Government, set up as a shadow body by army opponents, and media reports had also accused security forces of taking oxygen cylinders, protective wear and medicine for their own use during those raids.

"Weaponising Covid"

It was unclear why any of the doctors would have been detained, but the military has arrested medical staff previously for their conspicuous support for the civil disobedience movement.

An activist group, Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, has said hundreds of doctors who joined the anti-junta campaign have been charged with spreading false news and 73 have been arrested.

The consequent shortage of staff at hospitals and clinics has added to public mistrust of the junta.

A junta spokesman urged people last week to cooperate with the government in order to overcome the epidemic. And according to some doctors, the latest arrests could be an attempt to force people to rely more on the military authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-covid-19-outbreak-hits-health-system-shattered-after-coup-388299">Myanmar COVID-19 outbreak hits health system shattered after coup</a>

Denying the reported arrests in Yangon, the military administration referred to information about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> patients being secretly treated and charged high prices or being directed to online cures, adding that lives were being lost unnecessarily.

Yanghee Lee, a former UN&nbsp;Special Rapporteur on human rights in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;now on an advisory council, has accused the junta of "weaponising COVID-19 for its own political gain."

Angered by doctors' support for anti-junta protests, Myanmar's military has arrested several doctors treating COVID-19 patients independently, colleagues and media said, as the health system struggles to cope with a record wave of infections.

Angered by doctors' support for anti-junta protests, Myanmar's military has arrested several doctors treating COVID-19 patients independently, colleagues and media said, as the health system struggles to cope with a record wave of infections. Since the military overthrew the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in February, the ensuing turmoil and protests have thrown Myanmar's COVID-19 response into chaos, as activists say scores of doctors have been arrested for their prominent role in a civil disobedience movement. Also read | COVID-19 response runs underground in junta-ruled Myanmar Myanmar registered on Thursday over 6,000 new COVID-19 infections after reporting 286 deaths a day earlier, both record highs. Medics and funeral services say the real death toll is far higher, with crematoriums unable to keep pace. To help people who either refuse to go to a state hospital, because of opposition to the military, or find hospitals are too strapped to treat them, some doctors participating in the anti-junta campaign have offered free medical advice over the telephone, and visited the sick at home in some cases. But according to doctors and media reports in the past few weeks nine volunteer doctors offering tele-medicine and other services have been detained by the military in Myanmar's two largest cities - Yangon and Mandalay. The information team of the army-led State Administration Council issued a statement denying reports that five doctors had been arrested in Yangon, but omitted any reference to the alleged arrests in Mandalay, which included doctors active in the civil disobedience movement. Also read | As COVID rages in Myanmar, army hoards oxygen, doctors say All telephone calls from Reuters to a spokesman for the junta were unanswered. A doctor, who asked not to be named for fear of being targeted by the military authorities, said four of his colleagues from the "Medical Family - Mandalay group" had been arrested. They included Kyaw Kyaw Thet, who had been tutoring medical students, and senior surgeon Thet Htay, who the doctor said witnesses had seen handcuffed and bruised before being led away on July 16. Their group was set up to advise virus sufferers over the telephone how to breathe, how to use an oxygen concentrator, which medicines to buy and how to administer them. "We have been giving medical treatment to hundreds of patients per day," the doctor said, adding that many more of those patients could have died if they had not been attended to. Media reports from Yangon, which have been denied by the junta, said three doctors from a COVID-19 response group were arrested after being lured to a home by soldiers pretending to need treatment. The junta also denied Myanmar News portal reportthat security forces had arrested two doctors during a followup raid on their offices in the North Dagon district of Yangon. Also read | Health volunteers provide hope to Covid-infected Myanmar amid another outbreak The National Unity Government, set up as a shadow body by army opponents, and media reports had also accused security forces of taking oxygen cylinders, protective wear and medicine for their own use during those raids. "Weaponising Covid" It was unclear why any of the doctors would have been detained, but the military has arrested medical staff previously for their conspicuous support for the civil disobedience movement. An activist group, Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, has said hundreds of doctors who joined the anti-junta campaign have been charged with spreading false news and 73 have been arrested. The consequent shortage of staff at hospitals and clinics has added to public mistrust of the junta. A junta spokesman urged people last week to cooperate with the government in order to overcome the epidemic. And according to some doctors, the latest arrests could be an attempt to force people to rely more on the military authorities. Also read | Myanmar COVID-19 outbreak hits health system shattered after coup Denying the reported arrests in Yangon, the military administration referred to information about COVID-19 patients being secretly treated and charged high prices or being directed to online cures, adding that lives were being lost unnecessarily. Yanghee Lee, a former UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar now on an advisory council, has accused the junta of "weaponising COVID-19 for its own political gain."

Myanmar military accused of arresting doctors while COVID-19 infections rise

The healthcare system of Myanmar is nearing a total collapse as the country is reporting daily record-breaking numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths.

COVID-19 crisis worsens in Myanmar, record cases & deaths reported

The UN General Assembly is expected to approve a resolution calling on Myanmar's junta to restore the country's democratic transition and for all countries&nbsp;"to prevent the flow of arms into Myanmar,"&nbsp;diplomats said.

The draft resolution also condemns deadly violence by security forces and calls on the junta to unconditionally release the ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint "and all those who have been arbitrarily detained, charged or arrested."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-calls-on-southeast-asian-nations-to-take-action-on-myanmar-397969">Blinken calls on Southeast Asian nations to take action on Myanmar</a>

The 193-member assembly is scheduled to consider the resolution, which has more than 50 co-sponsors, on Friday afternoon and its sponsors are hoping it will be approved by consensus to send a strong message to the military of global opposition to its Feb 1 takeover and support for a return to Myanmar's democratic transition, though any nation can call for a vote.

The draft resulted from negotiations by a so-called Core Group including the European Union, many Western nations and the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations known as ASEAN, which includes Myanmar. A UN diplomat said there is an agreement with ASEAN to seek consensus, but what will happen with ASEAN members if there is a vote remains unclear.

The resolution's approval would mark one of the few times that the UN's most representative body expressed itself against a military coup and called for an arms embargo.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-rebel-group-suspends-key-leader-in-massacre-investigation-397219">Myanmar rebel group suspends key leader in massacre investigation</a>

Canada's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Bob Rae, a member of the Core Group, said Thursday that everyone has been working hard "to reach a broad consensus" on the text, and discussions were still underway on whether it would be approved by consensus or be put to a vote.

Myanmar for five decades had languished under strict military rule that led to international isolation and sanctions.

As the generals loosened their grip, culminating in Suu Kyi's rise to leadership in the 2015 elections, the international community responded by lifting most sanctions and pouring investment into the country. Her party was reelected by a landslide in November elections, but the military contends the vote was fraudulent and took over before the new Parliament was seated.

Widespread opposition to the junta's rule began with massive nonviolent protests. After soldiers and police used deadly force to crush the peaceful demonstrations, a low-level armed insurrection has emerged in both the cities and countryside.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tank-ing-democracy-myanmar-army-bans-internet-to-curb-protests-against-military-coup-363746">Tank-ing democracy: Myanmar army bans internet to curb protests against military coup</a>

Last week, the UN&nbsp;Human rights office cited credible reports that at least 860 people have been killed by security forces since Feb. 1, mostly during protests, and that more than 4,800 people - including activists, journalists and opponents of the junta - are in arbitrary detention.

Speaking of the draft resolution, Canada's Rae said: "I think it's a strong statement by the General Assembly about our strong opposition to what's been happening in Myanmar, and our strong desire for a shift back to a process of attaining democracy in the country, civil and economic rights for everybody including the Rohingya."

The draft calls on the Myanmar armed forces to respect the will of the people as freely expressed by the results of the general election of Nov 8, 2020. It also said the Parliament should be allowed to convene and the armed forces and other national bodies should be brought into an "inclusive civilian government that is representative of the will of the people."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-response-runs-underground-in-junta-ruled-myanmar-398915">COVID-19 response runs underground in junta-ruled Myanmar</a>

Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, but they do reflect global opinion and supporters of the draft believe it will have an impact.

Rae, a former Canadian special envoy to Myanmar, doesn't believe the nation can return to its past isolation since people in Myanmar "have developed a taste for openness, for democracy, for participation, and for social and political rights,"&nbsp;he said. "And I don't think the people are going to lose that taste. And I think that the answer is to do everything we can to sustain democracy."

The UN General Assembly is expected to approve a resolution calling on Myanmar's junta to restore the country's democratic transition and for all countries "to prevent the flow of arms into Myanmar," diplomats said.

The UN General Assembly is expected to approve a resolution calling on Myanmar's junta to restore the country's democratic transition and for all countries "to prevent the flow of arms into Myanmar," diplomats said. The draft resolution also condemns deadly violence by security forces and calls on the junta to unconditionally release the ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint "and all those who have been arbitrarily detained, charged or arrested." Also read | Blinken calls on Southeast Asian nations to take action on Myanmar The 193-member assembly is scheduled to consider the resolution, which has more than 50 co-sponsors, on Friday afternoon and its sponsors are hoping it will be approved by consensus to send a strong message to the military of global opposition to its Feb 1 takeover and support for a return to Myanmar's democratic transition, though any nation can call for a vote. The draft resulted from negotiations by a so-called Core Group including the European Union, many Western nations and the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations known as ASEAN, which includes Myanmar. A UN diplomat said there is an agreement with ASEAN to seek consensus, but what will happen with ASEAN members if there is a vote remains unclear. The resolution's approval would mark one of the few times that the UN's most representative body expressed itself against a military coup and called for an arms embargo. Also read | Myanmar rebel group suspends key leader in massacre investigation Canada's UN Ambassador Bob Rae, a member of the Core Group, said Thursday that everyone has been working hard "to reach a broad consensus" on the text, and discussions were still underway on whether it would be approved by consensus or be put to a vote. Myanmar for five decades had languished under strict military rule that led to international isolation and sanctions. As the generals loosened their grip, culminating in Suu Kyi's rise to leadership in the 2015 elections, the international community responded by lifting most sanctions and pouring investment into the country. Her party was reelected by a landslide in November elections, but the military contends the vote was fraudulent and took over before the new Parliament was seated. Widespread opposition to the junta's rule began with massive nonviolent protests. After soldiers and police used deadly force to crush the peaceful demonstrations, a low-level armed insurrection has emerged in both the cities and countryside. Also read | Tank-ing democracy: Myanmar army bans internet to curb protests against military coup Last week, the UN Human rights office cited credible reports that at least 860 people have been killed by security forces since Feb. 1, mostly during protests, and that more than 4,800 people - including activists, journalists and opponents of the junta - are in arbitrary detention. Speaking of the draft resolution, Canada's Rae said: "I think it's a strong statement by the General Assembly about our strong opposition to what's been happening in Myanmar, and our strong desire for a shift back to a process of attaining democracy in the country, civil and economic rights for everybody including the Rohingya." The draft calls on the Myanmar armed forces to respect the will of the people as freely expressed by the results of the general election of Nov 8, 2020. It also said the Parliament should be allowed to convene and the armed forces and other national bodies should be brought into an "inclusive civilian government that is representative of the will of the people." Also read | COVID-19 response runs underground in junta-ruled Myanmar Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, but they do reflect global opinion and supporters of the draft believe it will have an impact. Rae, a former Canadian special envoy to Myanmar, doesn't believe the nation can return to its past isolation since people in Myanmar "have developed a taste for openness, for democracy, for participation, and for social and political rights," he said. "And I don't think the people are going to lose that taste. And I think that the answer is to do everything we can to sustain democracy."

UN proposal seeks arms embargo and democracy in Myanmar

myanmar

Myanmar, News on Myanmar, stories on Myanmar, articles on Myanmar, Myanmar stories at Wion, Myanmar news, Myanmar latest news