Myanmar’s special court sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi to four years in jail. The suggestion comes as a result of statements made by Suu Kyi’s party on Facebook after she was detained by the military. Here’s all you need to know.
Why did Aung San Suu Kyi get a prison sentence?
The special court’s judgment is just the first in a series of events against the leader of the National League for Democracy. The 76-year-old Nobel laureate is facing a total of 11 charges. Together they can lead to a maximum of 102 years of imprisonment. Suu Kyi was found guilty on two charges. Firstly, for citing the people against the military and for breaching COVID-19 protocols in Myanmar. The incitement charge is from statements made by her party, following her military detainment. Additionally, a coup prevented her from starting a second term.
According to the charge, she was tried for spreading inflammatory or false information, disturbing public peace and order. The Facebook comments were submitted by the prosecution but her lawyers argued that she and Win Myint, the former president, are not accountable for them. The social media posts were criticizing the overthrow of the government and suggested resistance in broad terms. Additionally, she was also charged for breaching COVID-19 protocols. Suu Kyi waved at the supporters during a 2020 election campaign, according to the New York Times. However, the judgment for this charge is scheduled for December 14.
Suu Kyi’s detention is sparking protests across the country and demanding her release.
More on the other cases
Suu Kyi is under trial for several cases. Out of them, four separate charges of corruption, for taking bribes, providing unauthorized walks-talkies, and for abusing power. Additionally, she is also being tried for violating the nation’s Official Secrets Act with Australian economist Sean Turnell, who is already imprisoned. A fifth charge of corruption was filed by the junta. They are accusing her and the former president of corruption in permits for buying or renting a helicopter. However, the trial is yet to begin. Saturday’s anti-military protest in Yangon resulted in a minimum of 15 arrests and five deaths.
