Updated September 26, 2024 at 10:50 a.m.
On this day in 1988, The National League for Democracy was founded in Yangon, Myanmar.
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How did the NLD come into existence?
In 1988, Myanmar‘s pro-democracy uprising, known as the 8888 Uprising, began. Citizens took to the streets to protest against the authoritarian rule of the military junta. A series of demonstrations and protests led to widespread calls for democratic reforms. The NLD was founded during the height of this pro-democracy uprising. It emerged as a platform for opposition to the military government and as a vehicle for advocating reforms. Many ordinary citizens, students, activists, and professionals contributed financially to the movement.
Were there any challenges or obstacles to funding the NLD in 1988?
Funding the NLD in 1988 was challenging due to the repressive nature of the military junta’s rule. The government was suspicious of opposition groups and movements, including the NLD, and any financial support to such organizations could lead to persecution. Over the years, it has faced periods of repression, including arrests and detentions of its leaders, but has also participated in the country’s democratic transition.
What role did Aung San Suu Kyi play in the NLD?
Aung San Suu Kyi is a Burmese politician and leader of the NLD. She is the daughter of Aung San, a Burmese independence hero. Aung San Suu Kyi gained international recognition for her nonviolent struggle for democracy and human rights in Myanmar. She was placed under house arrest for a total of 15 years due to her activism and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991. Aung San Suu Kyi later led the NLD to victory in Myanmar’s 2015 elections and became the State Counsellor, a position equivalent to the head of government.