January 22, 2026
World
World
TOKYO, Jan 22 — Japan has halted the restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant just hours after it began, though the reactor remains “stable,” the operator said.
YANGON, July 19 — Myanmar's junta leader yesterday took part in annual commemorations for the country’s slain independence hero, General Aung San, marking his first appearance at the event since seizing power over four years ago.
Widely known as “Bogyoke” (General), Aung San led Myanmar’s fight for independence from British colonial rule, but was assassinated in July 1947—just months before the country achieved independence.
His daughter, Aung San Suu Kyi, who was only two at the time, later became an icon of democracy, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and a long-time opponent of the military.
State broadcaster MRTV aired footage of junta chief Min Aung Hlaing laying a wreath at the Martyrs’ Mausoleum in Yangon, near the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. He was accompanied by senior military officials to honour Aung San and his colleagues who were killed in 1947.
This marks Min Aung Hlaing’s first participation in the ceremony since the 2021 military coup, at a time when the junta continues to battle widespread resistance and faces international criticism over its planned elections.
Born in 1915 during British rule, Aung San rose to lead nationalist forces and is considered the founder of Myanmar’s military. He remains a revered figure, with his legacy deeply tied to the public support for his daughter.
Aung San Suu Kyi remains in detention following the coup and spent her 80th birthday last month, as well as this year’s Martyrs’ Day, under military custody, serving multiple lengthy prison sentences. — AFP
