Myanmar removes 15 statues of independence hero Aung San

Myanmar’s military‑backed government has removed or destroyed at least 15 statues of independence hero General Aung San across the country, residents told Radio Free Asia. The move comes amid growing efforts by authorities to erase symbols linked to the father of jailed former State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

Since Min Aung Hlaing was sworn in as president in April, statues have been taken down in regions including Magway, Bago, Yangon, Ayeyarwady, Sagaing and Mandalay. In June, a bronze statue was demolished in Bago, while several more were removed from parks in Yangon at the start of July. Residents say officials fenced off sites and monitored them to prevent photographs being taken.

Government spokesperson Khaing Khaing Soe insisted the removals were not widespread, claiming only statues with “incorrect proportions and shapes” were being reviewed under the Protection and Preservation of Ancient Monuments Law. The National League for Democracy (NLD), which helped erect many of the statues between 2015 and 2020, condemned the actions, saying they reflected the will of the people.

NLD vice chairman Bo Bo Oo accused the authorities of targeting Aung San’s legacy because of his daughter Suu Kyi. “The dictator is attacking the statues as well as oppressing the citizens,” he said.

Critics argue the campaign is part of a broader effort to erase Aung San’s image from public life, echoing earlier military regimes that removed his likeness from banknotes and official displays. Yet for many, the general remains a revered figure. “Nevertheless, Aung San will always be in the hearts of the people,” said Bo Bo Oo.

Officials have announced a special exhibition at the General Aung San Residence Museum in Natmauk for Martyrs’ Day on 19 July, but the dismantling of statues has already stirred anger and deepened divisions in a country still gripped by conflict.

-2026-07-12