On March 8, military council leader Min Aung Hlaing made questionable statements during a press conference in Belarus regarding international economic sanctions. During the briefing, he claimed that economic sanctions would lead to stronger computer software development and increased competition. Regarding this matter, U Toe Zaw Latt, Secretary of the International Peace and Human Rights Monitoring Committee (IPCM), analyzed that Min Aung Hlaing demonstrated a clear misunderstanding of English terms and made meaningless connections between sanctions and software development.
In Yangon, it has been reported that Hip Hop music events, including the 25th anniversary celebration, are being organized by Htet Yay Naung, son of Major General Ye Win Oo, who serves as the joint secretary of the military council and chief of the Anti-Corruption Commission. Revolutionary forces have issued warnings regarding these events, pointing out that these performances are being conducted to generate profit for the military council. The resistance groups have emphasized the concerning nature of these entertainment events being controlled by individuals connected to the military leadership.
Sixteen young people who were arrested in Thailand and subsequently transferred to the military council’s custody were forcibly recruited as new military personnel. However, all of them attempted to escape from their forced service. While four of them were recaptured by the military council, twelve successfully managed to flee. Among those who escaped, two have reached safety with the People’s Defense Force in Myeik region. This incident highlights the ongoing practice of forced recruitment by the military council and the desperate attempts by young people to escape such conscription. The situation continues to demonstrate the military council’s oppressive practices and the resistance of Myanmar’s youth against forced military service.
