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The conflict in Myanmar is escalating: at least 18 people were killed and more than 30 injured, some seriously, in national protests against yesterday’s military coup. It was the bloodiest day since the military took power in early February. The UN announced it in a statement. According to the United Nations, security forces fired live ammunition at protesters in the two largest cities, Yangon and Mandalay, as well as in Dawei, Bago, Myeik and Pokokkuo.
The UN condemned the violent crackdown “in the strongest terms.” “We call on the military to immediately stop the use of force against peaceful protesters,” said UN Human Rights Commissioner spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani.
The EU Foreign Affairs representative, Josep Borrell, condemned the actions of the military in a statement. By firing at unarmed civilians, the security forces had shown open disregard for international law, criticized Borrell. He called on Myanmar’s military authorities to immediately stop the violent action and expressed his solidarity with the EU for the “brave people” of the country who “defend their democracy”.
Listening to Aung San Suu Kyis
On February 1, the military seized power through a coup. The democratically elected government of de facto Prime Minister Aung San Suu Kyi was overthrown and the Nobel Peace Prize winner arrested. Since then, hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets against the army. So far they have not been deterred by the increase in violence and intimidation. The “bloody Sunday” had counted at least five fatalities.
Suu Kyi is scheduled for a court hearing today, Monday. She has been charged with dubious crimes, such as possessing unregistered radios. His lawyer, Khin Maung Zaw, said he had not yet been able to meet with his client. “As a lawyer, I trust the court. But anything can happen in these times.”
Deposed UN Ambassador
Myanmar’s ambassador to the UN, Kyaw Moe Tun, opposed the military leadership over the weekend and called on the international community to act. The board responded by firing him on Sunday. The diplomat “did not follow the orders and direction of the state,” he said in a report on state television.
