Myanmar’s deposed leader testifies at trial

 

Myanmar’s deposed leader testifies at trial

More than eight months after she was detained by the military in a coup, Aung San Suu Kyi appeared in a courtroom specially built for her in Naypyidaw, the capital of Myanmar, to defend herself during a closed-door hearing.

The prosecution has spent months presenting its case against her. She is charged with “inciting public unrest,” illegally importing walkie-talkies and breaching coronavirus regulations. The U.N. and foreign governments have called the charges, which could lead to 102 years in prison, as politically motivated.

No journalists, diplomats or members of the public have been allowed in court and Aung San Suu Kyi’s testimony on Tuesday was not made public. The junta has barred her lawyers from speaking to the news media.

What’s next: Experts say there is little doubt she will be convicted. Aung San Suu Kyi has long been a thorn in the side of the Myanmar military, and the country’s judiciary tends to side with the military.