A lawyer for former head of state Aung San Suu Kyi said comments she made about “dialogue” did not signal a softening toward the military’s grip on power.
The lawyer, speaking anonymously, told Myanmar Now that Suu Kyi’s recent reference to “dialogue” during a recent court hearing referred to divisions within the public and not the military brass who overthrew her elected government last year.
“There may be differences of opinion. Whatever we do, we must work together. If there is a difference of opinion, it must be discussed in a coordinated manner. That is what she meant,” the lawyer said, referring to different elements of the opposition movement.
Suu Kyi’s comments about dialog made waves among those who interpreted them as a sign she was willing to negotiate with the ruling junta.
“Everyone needs to be united. Dialogue is a must. If you have not been able to hold talks yet, you will have to wait and discuss again,” she reportedly said Monday in Naypyidaw.
Suu Kyi has been held by the junta since prior to the February 2021 coup at a secret location in Naypyidaw. She’s already been sentenced to a total of six years in jail in trials on various charges that began last year.
Monday’s hearing was for corruption allegations involving former Yangon Chief Minister Phyo Min Thein, who has testified that he bribed her with US$600,000 (MMK1.1 million) and gold bars. A ruling is expected in the case on April 26.
In final arguments in the corruption case, Suu Kyi’s lawyer said the lawsuit was illegal and that the prosecution had pressured Phyo Min Thein by filing a lawsuit against him while he was in custody.
Prosecution witnesses are still being questioned for the remaining four corruption cases against her. At yesterday’s hearing, Suu Kyi was seen wearing a traditional white Shan shirt and was said to be in good health by her lawyers.
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