Myanmar’s military government recently conducted a wreath-laying ceremony in Yangon to honor the memory of the country’s independence heroes, including Gen. Aung San, the father of the deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi. The main ceremony at the Martyrs’ Mausoleum was not attended by Suu Kyi, currently imprisoned, or Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the current head of the army-led government responsible for seizing power in 2021.
Aung San, a key figure in Myanmar’s independence from Britain, was assassinated 77 years ago when he was only 32 years old. His death anniversary holds significant historical importance in Myanmar, yet the ceremony had a subdued presence this year due to the military’s control following the 2021 coup. The event was marked by Gen. Maung Maung Aye and members of the ruling military council, while Aung San Oo, Suu Kyi’s brother, paid respects at their father’s tomb.
Across the country, tributes were paid to the fallen heroes with scattered demonstrations by pro-democracy activists and armed resistance groups commemorating their sacrifice. Suu Kyi, a symbol of resistance against military rule, remains detained since the coup, serving a lengthy prison term on widely disputed charges. The coup triggered widespread protests that were met with violent crackdowns, leading to armed uprisings in parts of Myanmar.
The military’s control over the country is now less extensive, with ongoing conflicts in various regions, including recent attacks in Naypyidaw. The army has justified its power grab through a state of emergency, renewed every six months, now up for extension in July. However, Acting President Myint Swe’s health concerns may complicate the renewal process, as he typically leads the National Defense and Security Council meetings.
According to reports, Myint Swe, who assumed the presidency post-coup, is battling health issues that might hinder his ability to convene critical meetings. Legal and procedural challenges loom regarding who could legally represent him in this pivotal decision-making process. The legitimacy of the post-coup power transition, which transferred authority to Min Aung Hlaing via Myint Swe, continues to be a subject of scrutiny among legal experts.