On July 18 in Yangon, military coup leader Min Aung Hlaing, who has imprisoned State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, visited the Bogyoke Aung San Museum and the Ministers’ Office (Secretariat). During his visit, he spoke about the importance of preserving General Aung San’s historical artifacts and memorabilia. This visit comes while he continues to hold Aung San’s daughter, Aung San Suu Kyi, in detention with multiple prison sentences.
At the Bogyoke Aung San Museum in Bahan Township, Min Aung Hlaing inspected various historical exhibits including General Aung San’s car, photo galleries, garden, portraits, and extensive documentation of his life journey – from his early years through university life, political career, military leadership, national leadership, and family life. The tour included examination of personal belongings, historical photographs, and various artifacts. He also visited different sections of the museum including the reception room, bedroom, prayer room, library, and special conference rooms where General Aung San’s clothing, furniture, books, and historical records are displayed.
During the visit, Min Aung Hlaing issued several directives regarding preservation efforts. He emphasized the need for expert restoration of General Aung San’s vehicle to ensure its long-term preservation. He also stressed the importance of maintaining the building’s original architectural integrity during any renovation work, suggesting the use of historical photographs as reference points. Additionally, he ordered the implementation of modern technology to enhance and preserve the photograph collection, and called for regular maintenance of the museum grounds and surrounding environment, including proper cleaning and landscaping of the garden areas.
Min Aung Hlaing then proceeded to the Ministers’ Office (Secretariat) in Botahtaung Township, where he gave instructions to maintain General Aung San’s office space in its original condition. He ordered proper labeling of historical photographs and emphasized the preservation of the building’s historical features. It’s worth noting that on February 1, 2021, Min Aung Hlaing seized power from the National League for Democracy government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, subsequently imprisoning her with lengthy sentences. While his regime continues to commit violence against civilians, force military conscription, and carry out arrests and killings, he now speaks of preserving the legacy of Aung San, whose daughter he has imprisoned.
