In the days following Myanmar's historic election it was fast apparent that Aung San Suu Kyi's party, the National League of Democracy (NLD), had taken a landslide victory. Throngs of crimson supporters waving flags adorned with the fighting peacock, a symbol associated with decades of struggle against military rule, waited in anticipation outside NLD headquarters as early results were announced. The euphoria was tangible, and it was clear that the people had voted for change and for democracy.
Still, the transition to "democracy" can be read as partial at best. The Lady's reach has been carefully demarcated by Myanmar's generals, who have ensured their power will not be compromised. The constitution allows the military 25% of seats in parliament, giving them an effective veto over all constitution amendments. The military will still maintain control over key bureaucracies, including Home Affairs, Border Affairs, and Defense. The constitution also provides that any person who has children who hold other citizenships (as is the case with Suu Kyi) will be barred from presidency. The Lady, in response, has publically reiterated that she will be "above" the president. A rose by any other name.
Now that the peacock has taken an overwhelming victory, what will come next? Crucially, will the NLD and their allies be able to effectively remedy a long legacy of human rights abuses? (Courtesy of Huffington Post)
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