On March 8, military council leader Min Aung Hlaing made peculiar remarks during a press conference in Belarus regarding economic sanctions. During the briefing, he claimed that economic sanctions would lead to stronger computer software development and increased competition. Commenting on these nonsensical statements, U Toe Zaw Latt, Secretary of the People’s Initiative for Civilian Government Cooperation Committee (IPCM), analyzed that Min Aung Hlaing demonstrated a clear lack of understanding regarding the nature of international economic sanctions and their implications.
In Yangon, Hip Hop music events, including the 25th anniversary celebration, are being organized by Htet Yay Naung, son of Lieutenant General Ye Win Oo, who serves as the joint secretary of the military council and chief of the Anti-Corruption Commission. This situation has prompted resistance forces to issue warnings to the public. They point out that these musical events are being orchestrated by family members of military council leaders who are attempting to maintain the military dictatorship system. The resistance groups emphasize the connection between these cultural events and the military council’s efforts to maintain control over society.
The case of 16 young people who were arrested in Thailand and subsequently transferred to the military council has drawn significant attention. After being forcibly recruited as new military personnel, they attempted to escape their situation. While 4 of the 16 youths were recaptured by the military council, the remaining 12 managed to escape successfully. Among them, 2 individuals have successfully reached and sought refuge with the Myeik People’s Defense Force. This incident serves as a clear example of the military council’s practice of forced conscription of young people into military service, highlighting the ongoing human rights violations and the desperate measures young people must take to avoid serving in the military council’s forces.
