Economist Podcasts As a general rules: Myanmar’s coup
Feb 2, 2021
Charlie McCann, the Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, provides a gripping analysis of Myanmar's military coup and its implications for democracy. He discusses public sentiment and the international response to the turmoil. Meanwhile, Sarah Maslin, the South America correspondent, highlights the environmental and social consequences of the wind power boom in Ecuador, particularly the destructive demand for balsa wood that harms local communities. Together, they explore critical issues surrounding political power and renewable energy.
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Coup in Myanmar
- The Myanmar army staged a coup after a humiliating election loss to Aung San Suu Kyi's NLD party.
- They claim election fraud, despite independent observers validating the results.
Military Power in Myanmar
- Despite the 2011 transition to civilian government, the Myanmar military retained significant power.
- They control key institutions and hold a quarter of parliamentary seats, giving them veto power.
Suu Kyi's Rise to Power
- Aung San Suu Kyi's party created the position of State Counsellor for her, circumventing the constitutional ban on her presidency.
- This move, along with her aim to reduce military control, fueled the army's discontent.