On March 8, military council leader Min Aung Hlaing made confusing statements about economic sanctions during a press conference in Belarus. During the briefing, he claimed that economic sanctions would lead to stronger computer software and increased competition. IPCM Secretary U Toe Zaw Latt analyzed that Min Aung Hlaing demonstrated a clear misunderstanding of international economic sanctions and technical terminology, making irrelevant connections between sanctions and software development.
In Yangon, Hip Hop 25th anniversary celebrations and other hip-hop music events are being organized by Htet Ye Naing, son of military council’s joint secretary and police chief General Ye Win Oo. This has prompted resistance forces to issue warnings to the public. These music events are being organized by family members of military council leaders who are attempting to maintain the military dictatorship system. Revolutionary forces have expressed concern about these events being used to normalize military control over civilian life.
Sixteen young people who were arrested in Thailand and transferred back to the military council were forcibly recruited as new soldiers. However, they attempted to escape, with four being recaptured by the military council. Of the remaining twelve who successfully fled, two have reached safety with the People’s Defense Force in Myeik region. This incident illustrates the military council’s ongoing practice of forced recruitment of young people into military service. The situation highlights the continuing human rights violations by the military council, including the forced conscription of civilians and the dangerous conditions faced by those who attempt to escape such recruitment.
