Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi Marks 80th Birthday in Junta Jail

Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar's deposed democratic leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, marked her 80th birthday in junta detention, serving multiple sentences totaling 27 years following the 2021 military coup. Her son, Kim Aris, who has had minimal contact with her since her imprisonment, has organized solidarity initiatives and fundraising efforts, including an 80km run and a U.S. tour to raise awareness and support for Myanmar's ongoing civil conflict and humanitarian crises. Despite her longstanding popularity in Myanmar, her international reputation has suffered due to her defense of the military's actions against the Rohingya Muslim minority. Currently held in Naypyidaw, Suu Kyi remains isolated, with her condition unknown, as the military continues its civil war against guerilla fighters. Kim Aris emphasizes the urgent need for dialogue to end the bloodshed, starting with the military's release of all political prisoners. While her global stature as a democracy icon has diminished, she continues to symbolize hope for many Myanmar citizens amid ongoing turmoil.