Myanmar’s military junta has announced that Aung San Suu Kyi, the country’s former leader, has been moved from prison to house arrest due to concerns about the hot weather in Myanmar’s central plain.
Speaking to various media outlets, junta spokesperson Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun stated that the decision to relocate the two leaders was made to protect them from the intense dry season heat. He did not disclose their new whereabouts.
Local media reports indicated that Aung San Suu Kyi, aged 78, and Win Myint, aged 72, were transferred to house arrest from prison. Aung San Suu Kyi was reportedly moved under tight security in Naypyidaw, while Win Myint was placed under house arrest in Bago Region, around 120 kilometers south of the capital.
Aung San Suu Kyi has been detained since the military takeover on February 1, 2021, facing various criminal charges. After initially being under house arrest, she was later placed in solitary confinement at Naypyidaw Prison.
Reports suggested possible relocations of Aung San Suu Kyi, but her current whereabouts remain uncertain. The National Unity Government expressed skepticism towards the junta’s explanation, citing recent drone attacks on Naypyidaw as a reason for concern about the safety of the two leaders.
While the military’s motives may be questioned, there are genuine concerns about Aung San Suu Kyi’s declining health. Despite losing political influence, she remains a symbolic figure for many opposing the junta.
The junta’s actions reflect a delicate balance between isolating Aung San Suu Kyi and ensuring her health does not deteriorate further, especially given the potential repercussions of her demise while in custody.