YANGON, Myanmar: The recent death of Zaw Myint Maung, a prominent leader of Myanmar’s National League for Democracy (NLD) and a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, has sent shockwaves through the country’s political landscape.
Zaw, who was 72 years old, succumbed to leukemia just days after being released from military custody due to health issues. His passing marks a significant loss for the NLD and for the ongoing struggle for democracy in Myanmar.
Zaw Myint Maung was a dedicated activist who spent nearly two decades imprisoned for opposing the military regime. He played a pivotal role in the pro-democracy uprisings of 1988, which were critical in bringing Aung San Suu Kyi to the forefront of Myanmar’s political scene. After the NLD won a landslide victory in the 2015 elections, Zaw became the chief minister of the Mandalay region, contributing to the party’s efforts to foster democratic governance.
His recent incarceration followed the military coup in February 2021, which reinstated military rule and undermined the democratic gains achieved over the previous decade. The junta’s harsh crackdown on dissent has significantly weakened the NLD, with many senior members facing imprisonment or, as in Zaw’s case, death. His demise is particularly poignant as the NLD grapples with its diminishing leadership and ongoing repression.
The situation in Myanmar remains dire, with the United Nations estimating that nearly three million people have been displaced due to conflict since the coup. The military’s brutal tactics, including the execution of political dissidents and the dissolution of the NLD, signal a harsh reality for those advocating for democracy. As Zaw Myint Maung’s supporters reflect on his legacy, they remain resolute in their commitment to continue the fight for democratic reform, despite the significant obstacles they face.
The death of Zaw highlights the ongoing struggles within Myanmar and the urgent need for international attention and support for the democratic movement led by the NLD and other civil society groups.
