Myanmar’s candidate to the Miss Universe pageant called attention to the political crisis in her country during the pageant’s national costume competition on May 13 (May 14 in Bangkok).
A group of young people in Myanmar has been distributing vegetables and other food stuff in communities most affected by the pandemic, which has been exacerbated by the military coup in the country.
Activists in Myanmar canceled traditional New Year observance this week and instead held small protests across the country to show their opposition to the prevailing military rule.
Pro-democracy activists pledged on April 13 to hold a series of protests this week to maintain pressure on military rulers during the country’s most important holiday of the year.
On March 17, Pope Francis launched a strong appeal for peace in Myanmar, saying during his general audience: “I too kneel down on the streets of Myanmar and say: Stop the violence. I too reach out my arms and say: May dialogue prevail!”
In a statement released on Wednesday, March 4, Cardinal Charles Bo warned the people of Myanmar, especially the youth, against “going down the path of violent struggle.”
The Myanmar nun who kneeled in front of police to protect anti-coup protestors has said she was surprised yet encouraged by Pope Francis mentioning her act of courage.
“Once again, and with great sorrow, I feel it is urgent to mention the dramatic situation in Myanmar, where many people, especially the young, are losing their lives to offer hope to their country,” said Pope Francis.
In a joint statement, SIGNIS, Pax Christi International, and the Focolare Movement called for an end to what they described as the “disinformation campaign” by the military in Myanmar to ensure and justify their stay in power.
A Catholic priest in the Diocese of Loikaw stood his ground on Tuesday, March 9, and barred soldiers and policemen from going after protester in the city of Loikaw in Kaya State.
More priest and nuns are joining street marches in Myanmar this week following the shooting of protesters by the police and military outside a Catholic church on Monday, March 8.
Violence erupted in Myanmar on Monday, March 8, after policemen and soldiers shot at protesters outside the Catholic cathedral in the city of MyitKyiNa in Myanmar.
She cried and begged the policemen and soldiers to put down their guns and to avoid violence. A photo of the nun negotiating with the security forces became viral on social media.
Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Yangon called for patience and tolerance amid growing violence in Myanmar a month after the military took over the government in a coup.
