Protests in Myanmar as army takes control - B1


Myanmar protests army takeover - 10th February 2021

There have been large protests on the streets of Myanmar. The protestors are angry about the military takeover of the country.

Myanmar's army arrested the country's leaders on 1st February. Aung San Suu Kyi is one of the politicians who was arrested. She is a very popular leader in Myanmar. Now, she has to stay in her home.

Tens of thousands of people protested Suu Kyi's arrest at the weekend. They want the military to let Suu Kyi go.

Many protestors used 'the three finger salute': a hand gesture from the film "The Hunger Games". In the film, this gesture is used by people who fight against the government. The gesture has become popular in South East Asia. Protestors use it as a sign for freedom.

The military says there is a good reason for the takeover. Military leaders believe that politicians cheated in November's election. They say there should be another election next year. Until then, Myanmar should stay under military control.

International leaders don't share the army's opinion. They are asking the military to give back control of the country.