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Aung San Suu Kyi and the 'New' Burma: Summary

Core Content

This document is a transcript of a discussion held on 14 November 2011, featuring Peter Popham, a former journalist and biographer of Aung San Suu Kyi, and chaired by Isabel Hilton. The conversation explores Suu Kyi's evolving role in Burmese politics following her release from house arrest in 2010 and the country's political transformation. It also delves into her personal history, character, and the symbolic significance of her figure in both Burmese and international contexts.

Main Points

• Suu Kyi's Early Life and Rise to Prominence:

  • Aung San Suu Kyi first gained public attention in 1988 during a speech in Rangoon, where she was seen as a symbol of hope and change.
  • Her appearance, speech, and moral stance captivated the public, even in the face of adversity.
  • She was perceived as a moral figure, with her image being almost mythologized in both Burmese and Western societies.

• Personal Characteristics:

  • Despite her saintly image, Popham reveals a more complex and human side of Suu Kyi, including her willpower, independence, and personal struggles.
  • She was not afraid to challenge norms, such as marrying a foreigner, and had a strong sense of self and moral conviction.

• Biographical Insights:

  • Suu Kyi's early years at Oxford showed her as a curious and determined individual, though she struggled with the academic system and her mother’s expectations.
  • Her relationship with Michael Aris, a British academic, was significant in shaping her political commitment and her willingness to return to Burma.

• Political Context:

  • After her release in 2010, Suu Kyi initially remained in Rangoon, which was seen as a sign of caution rather than a lack of ambition.
  • Her inactivity was interpreted as a strategic decision to cooperate with the incoming president, Thein Sein, in exchange for political reforms.

• Thein Sein's Reforms and Suu Kyi's Role:

  • Thein Sein, a former general, has initiated a series of political reforms, including the re-registration of the NLD, the release of political prisoners, and the suspension of the Myitsone Dam.
  • These reforms are seen as a shift towards a more moderate stance, possibly influenced by the fear of China's growing influence in the region.

• Suu Kyi's Future Challenges:

  • Popham questions whether Suu Kyi should engage with the political system or remain in the opposition.
  • He argues that her moral stance and independence make it unlikely she would be tempted by political power.
  • However, her engagement with Thein Sein could risk her becoming part of a political machine still dominated by the military.

Key Information

• Release from House Arrest: Aung San Suu Kyi was released from house arrest on 14 November 2010, marking a significant turning point in her political journey.
• NLD's Re-emergence: The National League for Democracy (NLD) was deregistered in 2010 but is expected to re-register and participate in the political process.
• Thein Sein's Leadership: Thein Sein, a former general, has initiated political reforms, which may have been influenced by external pressures, particularly from China.
• Suu Kyi's Political Strategy: Her initial inactivity may have been a calculated move to encourage reforms, but her long-term role remains uncertain.
• Criticism of Western Engagement: Some analysts warn that the shift towards Western capitalism could threaten Burma's sovereignty and lead to corruption, which is not in line with Suu Kyi's vision of a moral and just society.

Conclusion

Peter Popham emphasizes that Aung San Suu Kyi is not a passive figure but a determined and independent individual who has consistently upheld her moral values. While the current political climate in Burma offers new opportunities, it also presents significant risks. Her decision to engage with the government or remain in opposition will be crucial in shaping the future of the country. Popham concludes that Suu Kyi's actions will be guided by her principles, and she is unlikely to compromise her integrity for political gain.