At a press conference in Belarus, military council leader Min Aung Hlaing made peculiar remarks regarding economic sanctions. According to U Toe Zaw Latt, Secretary of the People’s Defense Force Coordination Committee (IPCM), Min Aung Hlaing demonstrated a clear misunderstanding of the relationship between economic sanctions and computer software. His comments revealed a fundamental lack of comprehension regarding the nature of international economic sanctions, as he incorrectly suggested that sanctions would lead to increased competition in software development.
In Yangon, Hip Hop music events, including a 25th anniversary celebration, are being organized by Htet Yay Naung, son of military council’s joint secretary and Sa Ra Pha Chief Lieutenant General Ye Win Oo. This development has prompted resistance forces to issue warnings to the public. During this revolutionary period against the military dictatorship, resistance groups have urged people to avoid events associated with the military council and its affiliates. These warnings emphasize the importance of maintaining solidarity with the resistance movement and avoiding activities that might legitimize military council-affiliated events.
In a significant development, sixteen Myanmar youths who were arrested in Thailand and subsequently transferred to the military council managed to escape after being forcibly recruited as soldiers. Of these escapees, four were unfortunately recaptured by the military council, while twelve successfully escaped. Among those who gained freedom, two have confirmed to have reached safety with the Myeik District People’s Defense Force. This incident further demonstrates the military council’s ongoing human rights violations and forced recruitment practices targeting young people. The situation highlights the continuing struggle of Myanmar’s youth against forced military service and the risks they take to escape the military council’s oppression.
