Myanmar Junta Denies Request for Talks
Myanmar’s junta has denied a request by Cambodia’s former prime minister Hun Sen for talks with detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi has been largely hidden from view since the military detained her following the coup on February 1, 2021.
Rebuffing Requests for Meetings
The junta has rebuffed numerous requests by foreign leaders and diplomats to meet with Suu Kyi, the 1991 Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Despite reports of her health problems during her detention, the junta has not allowed these meetings to take place.
Request for Meeting Denied
Hun Sen, who recently stepped down as Cambodia’s prime minister after nearly four decades in power, expressed his desire to meet with Suu Kyi during a video call with junta chief Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing. However, the junta spokesperson stated that there was no reason to facilitate the meeting at this time.
Promise of Fresh Elections
The military has promised to hold fresh elections, which have been delayed multiple times. The spokesperson mentioned that the elections would take place “without fail” but did not provide specific details.
Current Situation and International Relations
Since her detention, Suu Kyi has had limited contact with foreign envoys. The junta court sentenced her to a 27-year prison term after a trial criticized by rights groups. Recent reports of talks between former Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra and Myanmar ethnic armed groups have raised concerns about supporting activities against the junta.
Despite the military’s claims of electoral fraud, the junta has faced challenges in holding nationwide elections. The ongoing opposition to the military rule has further complicated the political situation in Myanmar.
