Aung San Suu Kyi's Son Describes Contact With Detained Mother

Kim Aris, a 49-year-old carpenter living in London, spoke with his mother, Aung San Suu Kyi, for the first time since the 2021 military coup in Myanmar. The conversation, which lasted 20 minutes, took place on Thursday. Aris provided details about the exchange, offering a rare glimpse into the conditions of the Nobel Peace Prize laureate's detention. The call marks their first direct communication since the military seized power and ousted the government she led.

Aris reported that his mother initiated the conversation by asking about his health. He conveyed the family's love and inquired about her well-being. 'My mother is actually alive and well,' Aris told NPR, adding that hearing her voice provided reassurance regarding her state. The dialogue was arranged through Myanmar's Embassy in London, according to Khaing Khaing Soe, a spokesperson for Myanmar's military-backed president, who also released photographs of the two individuals.

During the call, Aris learned that the 81-year-old former leader is being held at a residence in the capital, Naypyidaw. He believes the building is surrounded by police and military personnel and is fenced off, with a garden she may be permitted to use. He characterized her situation as solitary confinement, noting that while she has access to books, she does not appear to have access to news via radio, television, or newspapers.

The discussion also addressed her physical health, which has been a concern for her family. Aris reported that she sounded strong but is suffering from significant pain due to tendonitis in her hand, which sometimes renders the limb unusable. She told him that she receives a medical checkup every six months. Aris plans to send her a care package, and she has requested a mix of healthy food and treats, specifically mentioning Ben's Cookies, a brand from Oxford, England.

Aris believes the military monitored the conversation, limiting the topics they could discuss. Consequently, they avoided discussing the ongoing civil war. He suggested the call may be an attempt by the military to improve its image while coup leader Min Aung Hlaing, installed as president following a military-engineered election in January, seeks legitimacy abroad. 'I hope that governments around the world won't be taken in,' Aris said.

The 2021 coup initiated a conflict that has resulted in approximately 100,000 deaths, according to the monitoring group ACLED, with millions displaced. ACLED reports an increase in attacks on civilians since Min Aung Hlaing assumed the presidency. The U.S. State Department continues to express concern regarding unjustly detained individuals and has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Suu Kyi.

Analysts suggest the regime views Suu Kyi as a strategic asset rather than a prisoner to be freed. Nay Phone Latt, a spokesperson for the exiled National Unity Government, indicated the regime 'dare not release' her. Richard Horsey of the International Crisis Group described her status as 'potentially the most valuable card Min Aung Hlaing holds,' warning she could be used as a bargaining chip. While Aris hopes for further communication, he acknowledged the possibility that this call was a one-time event.

The call provided specific information regarding the conditions of Suu Kyi's detention, including details about her health and location. It also highlighted the geopolitical complexities surrounding her situation. Her release remains a point of contention between the military government and international observers, who continue to monitor the conflict and the status of detained individuals.