Son of Detained Myanmar Leader Seeks Proof of Her Condition

Kim Aris is seeking independent confirmation of whether his mother, Aung San Suu Kyi, is alive and in what condition after five years without reliable information. Aris last spoke with her days before the February 2021 military takeover. He said she had warned him something was coming but was unsure what it would be.

He does not accept statements from military spokespeople or prison staff as credible. He said reports of her health mention problems with her teeth and gums, heart issues, and other age-related conditions. Aris expressed concern that military authorities may allow her condition to worsen without providing care.

Aris is in Australia promoting a campaign called Proof of Life. He plans to skateboard 81 kilometres before her 81st birthday to draw attention to her situation. A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson said Australia continues to call for her unconditional release and expects she will be allowed contact with family, lawyers, and medical care.

Aris met the spokesperson's office last week. He also attended a community event in north-western Sydney marking her upcoming birthday.