Aung San Suu Kyi, the former leader of Myanmar, has been transferred from prison to house arrest, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the military junta. This decision was reportedly made to protect Suu Kyi from the extreme hot weather conditions that could pose health risks. Alongside her, ousted president U Win Myint has also been moved under similar circumstances. Both are elderly, with Suu Kyi aged 78 and Win Myint aged 72, and their health has been a growing concern, with Suu Kyi having difficulties due to gum disease and Win Myint having received medical treatment last year.

The transfer occurs amidst ongoing political tensions in Myanmar following the military coup in February 2021, during which Suu Kyi was detained. Since the coup, she has faced a multitude of charges, which cumulatively could lead to a 27-year sentence. Despite international outcry and calls for her release from entities such as the UN Security Council, Suu Kyi remains under confinement, with the terms of her detention being unclear and occasionally contradicting.

Recently, the National Unity Government has reiterated calls for the immediate and unconditional release of both Suu Kyi and Win Myint. However, the military junta’s recent actions, including the shift to house arrest, have been viewed with skepticism concerning their intentions amidst the internal conflicts and battlefield setbacks they face. The situation remains dynamic, with significant international focus on Myanmar’s handling of detained political leaders.