Myanmar Detainee: Son Hears Mother's Voice After Six-Year Silence
A carpenter in London connected with his mother, the former leader held by the military, in a rare call that revealed her current living conditions and physical health.
By Fatima Laurent ·
The wait for direct contact has finally ended for one of the world's most recognized political figures. Kim Aris, a 49-year-old carpenter living in London, spoke by telephone with his mother, Aung San Suu Kyi, on Thursday. This 20-minute conversation marks the first time they have talked directly since the military seizure of power in 2021. For Aris, the primary change is the confirmation that she is not only alive but also relatively well. He noted that hearing her voice provided a significant sense of reassurance after nearly six years of separation.
The military government arranged the call through its diplomatic mission in London. Khaing Khaing Soe, a spokesperson for the military-backed president, confirmed the event on social media and released separate photos of the mother and son. Aris used the time to ask about her health, and she responded by asking about his. Despite the brevity of the connection, it offers a rare glimpse into the life of the 81-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who has been under military control since the coup.
Aris gained new details about his mother's confinement during the chat. She is currently held at a residence in or near Naypyidaw, the capital city. He described the location as a fenced-off property with a scrubby garden, likely the only outdoor space available to her. Police and military personnel reportedly surround the building. Although she is not in a traditional prison cell, Aris characterized her situation as solitary confinement. She can read books, but he believes she lacks access to newspapers, radio, or television news.
Her physical condition remains a major concern for the family. Aris reported that she sounded strong but is suffering from painful tendonitis in her hand. At times, she cannot use the affected limb. She receives a medical checkup every six months. To support her, Aris plans to send a care package. She requested a mix of healthy food and treats. He is considering Ben's Cookies, a brand from Oxford, England, where the family lived before moving to Myanmar in 1988.
The context of the call suggests strategic motives by the ruling junta. Aris believes the military monitored the conversation, leading them to avoid sensitive topics like the ongoing civil war. He views the event as an effort to improve the regime's image. This comes as coup leader Min Aung Hlaing, who became president in January, travels abroad seeking international legitimacy. Aris hopes world leaders will not be fooled by this display.
The broader conflict remains severe. The civil war has claimed approximately 100,000 lives, according to the monitoring group ACLED. The U.N. reports that millions have been displaced. ACLED notes that military attacks on civilians have escalated since Hlaing took office, even as regional diplomatic engagement increases. He remains under U.S. sanctions for human rights abuses, including the 2016 and 2017 actions against Rohingya Muslims, which Washington declared a genocide. Suu Kyi's global standing took a hit in 2019 when she defended Myanmar at the International Court of Justice, though she remains popular domestically.
Experts believe her detention serves a specific purpose for the military. Nay Phone Latt, a spokesperson for the exiled National Unity Government, stated that the regime dare not release her because her strength would bolster the revolution. Richard Horsey of the International Crisis Group described her as potentially the most valuable card Hlaing holds. He warned she could become a bargaining chip while airstrikes continue, noting that her release is very unlikely and would not end the war on its own.
The U.S. State Department continues to express concern over unjustly detained individuals. It urged the military to engage in genuine dialogue with all opposition groups. In August, its Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs called for Suu Kyi's immediate and unconditional release. Aris suspects the call may be a one-off event. He said his mother believes she provides strength to the Burmese people by sharing in their hardships.
Source: NPR
