Beijing Divided Over Suu Kyi’s Medical Crisis in Junta Custody

[geovalin]

wiki

 

The worsening health of Myanmar’s detained democracy icon Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has sparked internal debate among Chinese officials, revealing a rare split in Beijing’s approach to its troubled southern neighbour.

 

Suu Kyi, now 80, is reportedly suffering from serious heart complications while serving a 27-year sentence imposed by the military regime that ousted her in 2021. Her son, Kim Aris, has publicly appealed for urgent medical intervention, describing her detention as “cruel and life-threatening.”

 

In Beijing, officials tasked with Myanmar affairs are reportedly divided. Some advocate transferring Suu Kyi to China for treatment, citing humanitarian concerns and her historical ties with Chinese leadership. Others argue against involvement, wary of jeopardising relations with the junta, which has dismissed reports of her declining health as politically motivated fabrications timed to distract from junta chief Min Aung Hlaing’s recent visit to China.

 

Suu Kyi’s relationship with Beijing has long been complex. As State Counselor, she visited China multiple times and met President Xi Jinping, notably in 2015 as opposition leader—a rare honour. Her role in advancing the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor under the Belt and Road Initiative made her a key figure in bilateral ties.

 

Despite this, China’s requests to meet her since her arrest have been denied. The National Unity Government (NUG), Myanmar’s opposition-in-exile, has urged Beijing to press the junta for humane treatment. Foreign Minister Daw Zin Mar Aung acknowledged China’s concern and called on it to act as a “good friend” to Myanmar.

 

Diplomatic sources suggest Suu Kyi is held in a ministerial residence in Naypyitaw, though her exact location remains unconfirmed. Critics fear the regime may allow her to die in custody, avoiding a public memorial that could galvanise opposition.

 

As Myanmar’s political crisis deepens, Suu Kyi’s health has become a flashpoint—testing not only the junta’s resolve but also China’s balancing act between strategic interests and moral responsibility. Her fate may yet shape the region’s diplomatic landscape.

 

 

-2025-09-10

[The Alien]

Don't believe they would allow her to die. Unfortunately, she's the Junta's most valuable bargaining chip.

[Burma Bill]

On 9/10/2025 at 10:28 AM, geovalin said:

Critics fear the regime may allow her to die in custody, avoiding a public memorial that could galvanise opposition.

 

This shows just how "thick" the Junta Generals are! 

Sadly, whatever happens to The Honorable Lady, her demise WILL galvanise opposition. She was loved and supported by so many of her people and internationally.

 

Photo: meeting UK Prime Minister Theresa May in 2016 - happier times for Burma!

 

[Will B Good]

 

Whatever decision is reached, her health and well being will come a poor second to the real reason for any action.

[emptypockets]

Very sad, she is well respected and loved by many Burmese people as was her father. They still had a national holiday for general Aung when I Iived there.