Myanmar’s anti-coup protesters go on a ‘silent strike’

Several artworks and graphics were displayed to support the silent strike. The nationwide shutdown, according to reports, was a success

Protesters in Myanmar staged a countrywide ‘silent strike’ on Friday, shutting down shops and emptying the streets in their latest attempt to oppose the coup.

Many cities' streets were vacant, and Yangon, Myanmar's largest metropolis, had few automobiles. Pictures in the local media also showed deserted streets in Mawlamyine, in the southeast, and in towns in the northern Sagaing area.

Myanmar’s nationwide shutdown described as a success

To support the silent strike, several artworks and visuals were shown. According to reports, the countrywide shutdown was a success.

On Friday, protest organizers asked for silent strikes from 10 AM to 4 PM, but nearly everything shut down early in the day. At 4 PM (local time), the sound of mass clapping signalled the conclusion of the strike in various Yangon neighbourhoods.

Meanwhile, the US embassy in Yangon had warned its people to remain off the streets on Friday, citing a higher chance of security forces retaliating violently against any rallies or gatherings.

Following the coup a month earlier, similar strikes were organized in March, with people staying at home and refusing to participate in any activities.

Civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi jailed after military coup

On February 1, the military of the Southeast Asian country conducted a coup and overthrew civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

A junta court sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi to two years in prison on Monday for inciting military retaliation and violating coronavirus rules during the elections her party won last year.

She faces a slew of other allegations, including official secrets breaches, corruption, and election fraud, and if convicted on all counts, she may spend decades in jail.

Myanmar in a state of anarchy and bloodshed

Myanmar has been in a state of anarchy and bloodshed since then. To put an end to the anti-coup actions, the Myanmar military has launched harsh attacks and raids on demonstrators and citizens around the nation.

Since the coup, at least 1,300 people have been killed and over 10,000 people have been jailed, according to the rights group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, which tracks the deaths and human rights crimes.

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