Aung San Suu Kyi Speaks With Son After Five Years
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Myanmar’s former state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi has spoken directly with her younger son, Kim Aris, for the first time since the military seized power in February 2021. Aris said the call, arranged through the Myanmar embassy in London, lasted about 20 minutes and was deeply significant to him. He said the 81-year-old sounded as strong as before, although her voice was somewhat hoarse, and that she told him her overall health was broadly good despite pain in one hand. The contact comes as Myanmar’s authorities have recently shown limited signs of easing her isolation, including allowing private meetings and a visit by Red Cross representatives
Key Points
- Kim Aris confirmed on October 22 that he had been permitted to speak directly with his detained mother, Aung San Suu Kyi, for the first time in more than five years
- Aris, who lives in Britain, said the call took place on Thursday through the Myanmar embassy in London and lasted about 20 minutes.
- He said Suu Kyi, now 81, sounded strong but slightly hoarse, and told him she was generally well despite suffering pain in her hand
- Aris said military doctors examine her every six months, but he questioned whether their assessments could be fully trusted
- Suu Kyi was detained in the February 2021 coup, later sentenced in 2023 to 27 years in prison, and this year had her sentence reduced and detention changed to house arrest
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong readers, the call offers a rare, direct glimpse into the condition of one of Asia’s most prominent detained political figures after years of near-total isolation. It also suggests Myanmar’s military authorities may be trying to answer international pressure by showing that Suu Kyi is alive and receiving somewhat improved treatment, without restoring normal family access or broader political freedoms