Families Cut Ties with Those Against The Military, Fearing Myanmar Junta

The Assistance Association for Political Prisoner (AAPP) data reveals that more than 1,400 civilian deaths have been documented during military crackdowns on the pro-democracy movement. 

Yangon City| Photo: Getty

Myanmar, which is under military rule presently, is witnessing a new problem. Every day about six to seven families post notices in the state-owned newspaper of the country announcing that they have nothing to do with their family members who oppose the military junta.

It has been one year since the military took power in Myanmar post a coup. The Guardian reports that the newly elected parliament was to take charge when the military accused Aung San Suu Kyi-led National League for Democracy of electoral fraud in the November 2020 elections and usurped power.

Immediately, protests broke out against the military rule nationwide. The country has been reporting violent crackdowns ever since. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoner (AAPP) data reveals that more than 1,400 civilian deaths have been documented during military crackdowns on the pro-democracy movement. 

Amidst the growing fear of the military and its strict rules in Myanmar, the families have been now forced to publicly announce that they have disowned their family members who oppose the military rule in the country. This instance first came to light in November 2021.

Residents of Myanmar are taking such harsh steps because the powerful army has threatened to capture the properties of those who dare to oppose it. Along with that, the army also announced that it will arrest anyone who gives shelter to such people. They have even raided numerous houses post the announcement.

These public notices are precautionary steps taken by the citizens to safeguard themselves and to send a message to the military junta that they should not be charged for the il-actions of their family members. 

Zaw Min Tun, the military spokesperson, said in a news conference in November that despite making declarations, people could still be charged if found opposing the military government in any form.

“Who have made such declarations in newspapers, could still be charged if found to be supporting opposition to the junta,” said Zaw Min Tun as reported by Wion.