The release of Suu Kyi, Myanmar’s democracy icon, on Saturday, 13th November 2010, was warmly welcomed by world leaders and human rights’ organisations. She has been under house arrest by Myanmar’s ruling generals for 15 of the past 21 years with no access to media, including the internet and outside world contact.
Amnesty International demanded freedom for the country’s 2,200 other political prisoners. The London-based Human Rights’ Group said Suu Kyi’s release was not a “concession” by the regime and it should not take attention away from other prisoners of conscience being held in “degrading conditions”.
We would do well to note Suu Kyi’s demeanour and words of wisdom in the early days of her release. The pro-democracy leader called for freedom of speech in the army-ruled country and urged thousands of supporters to stand up for their rights and not to lose heart. The following are three evidences of her philosophy:
“The basis of democratic freedom is freedom of speech.”
“I believe in human rights and I believe in the rule of law.”
“Even if you are not political, politics will come to you.”
She declined to comment whether she would urge the West to roll back sanctions that many say hurt ordinary people by allowing the Junta to monopolise the country’s resource-rich economy.
Suu Kyi’s wisdom is highlighted when she stated that she wanted to “hear the voice of the people” before deciding her course of action. (Malaysian politicians should take note!)
Angela Merkel, the German Chancellor, pays glowing tribute as she hails Suu Kyi’s release:
“Aung San Suu Kyi is a symbolic figure of the global fight for human rights. Her pacifism and her unyieldingness have made her a model.”
Suu Kyi is still waiting to meet the army leaders and she has cautioned the US not to wear rose-coloured glasses when they are engaged with the military regime. She tells them to keep their eyes open and alert and to see what is really going on, and where their engagement is leading to and what changes really need to be brought about.
We can endorse and also make it our prayer what was written by Dr Chandra Muzzafar (International Movement For A Just World).
“Let Suu Kyi’s freedom this time pave the way for the eventual liberation of the people of Myanmar.”
The Micah Mandate is a Christian-based public interest advocacy ministry that seeks a transformation of our nation through justice, mercy and humility.
November 23rd, 2010 at 11:44 am
Sustained pressure from the international community does have an effect. However, the military dictatorship will have their own reasons for releasing her when they did. Since they have little choice but to safeguard their position of strength, power and wealth, this action, though welcome, will in all probability not be about loosening their hold over the country that has suffered so much. All the more so, the lady is to be admired and looked up to as a beacon of how authoritarian rule is to be fought rather than accepted.