Myanmar Activists Gear Up for Silent Strike After Tragic Loss
What’s Been Happening?
On March 24, pro‑democracy folks are planning a silent strike that will shut down shops, rides‑hailing services, and even pharmacies for a day. They’re doing it because of a horrifying incident where a 7‑year‑old girl lost her life during a military crackdown in Mandalay.
The Heart‑breaking Incident
- A child, who was just sitting on her father’s lap inside their home, was shot by security forces during a raid.
- The girl’s sister told investigators that the troops had also fired at her father in the same exchange.
- Despite the chaos, the soldier’s aim missed the father but tragically hit the little one.
- Two other men were also killed in the same district.
- The incident marks the youngest victim in the ongoing bloody crackdown.
Why a Silent Strike?
In a “cat & mouse” game with the military, activists have decided to switch tactics. A silent strike means: no going out, no shopping, and no work for one day. Nobel Aung, an illustrator and activist, politely urged people to stay home.
What Businesses Will Close?
From ride‑hailers to pharmacies, folks on social media are saying they’re “shutting down” and taking the day off.
The Empire’s Faces and the Fallout
The junta is facing international backlash for its coup, the death toll, and for imposing a state of emergency. The leaders claim that the February 1 coup was necessary because they “stopped the country from becoming a democracy” and called the last election a fraud.
In the Media’s Crosshairs
Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun threw a serious knife at the reporters, calling them “fake news” and accusing them of fomenting unrest. He even threatened people who are in contact with the remnants of Ms. Suu Kyi’s NLD.
What Did the NLD Say?
They’ve outright denied any meddling in the election and called it “nonsense.”
The Big Picture
- Over 275 people have died in the crackdown (AAPP reports).
- The junta claims nine of their own were killed – a figure that’s hard to verify.
- They’re even hinting at the COVID‑19 toll because hospitals aren’t functioning properly.
- After a chaotic video testimony from ex‑Yangon chief minister Phyo Min Thein, the picture looks even more tangled.
What Happens Next?
While the silent strike is planned for March 24, the activists are also gearing up for more candlelit vigils and protests. Meanwhile, Ms. Suu Kyi faces yet another court hearing via video link—her freedom is hanging in a twisty, tastefully complex web of politics, international pressure, and ongoing unrest.
Stay tuned, stay informed, and maybe keep your home safe—because, frankly, you never know which day might end up an official “no-go” day.
