Myanmar's political landscape shifted abruptly in February when military forces detained President Win Myint, State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, and other National League for Democracy officials. The military declared a one-year state of emergency, plunging residents into a reality marked by curfews, internet blackouts, and growing civil resistance.
Yangon-based teacher Khin Zaw describes the atmosphere as \"a mix of fear and determination.\" Many residents report stockpiling essentials amid sporadic banking disruptions, while underground networks for food and medicine distribution have emerged. Nighttime streets, once bustling, now fall silent under military patrols.
Youth-led digital activism has surged, with encrypted apps enabling protest coordination. Yet internet restrictions complicate daily life—remote workers struggle with VPN outages, and families rely on offline messaging to stay connected.
While some residents express cautious optimism about restoring democratic processes, others emphasize the human cost: \"We're exhausted but united,\" says Mandalay shop owner Aye Myat. International organizations report over 1,000 political detentions since February, amplifying concerns about long-term stability.
As the military consolidates power, Myanmar's next chapter hinges on balancing grassroots resistance, diplomatic pressure, and economic realities for its 54 million residents.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
