Aung San Suu Kyi Analysis

“Some have questioned the appropriateness of talking about such matters as metta (loving-kindness) and thissa (truth) in the political context. But politics is about people and what we had seen … proved that love and truth can move people more strongly than any form of coercion.” Aung San Suu Kyi, 1996

1. Introduction: The Life of Aung San Suu Kyi

Perhaps one of the most influential leaders of our time, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi finds a special place even within the realm of outstanding leaders. As one among the very few women leaders who have been able to fundamentally impact the global political scenario, Suu Kyi’s story gathers both admiration and controversy. However, fraught with obstacles, her life and her legendary leadership style will evoke inspiration for generations to come.

Born on 19 June 1945 in Rangoon (now Yangon), Myanmar, Suu Kyi’s parents were one of the biggest influence on the life she was to live. Her father, Aung San, was the Commander of the Burma Independence Army and often hailed as the de facto Prime Minister of the time while her mother, Ma Khin Kyi, was a senior nurse at the Rangoon General Hospital. In 1947, her life took the first blow when her father was assassinated. In 1960, Suu Kyi made her first acquaintance with India when her mother was appointed the ambassador to the country. She went on

She re-wrote history for the country establishing a democratic rule, free from the military rule. The first election in twenty years was held in Burma (now Myanmar) in November 2010. Though the military-backed party, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) won the election with resounding success, worldwide due to Suu Kyi’s efforts, the election was termed as a big sham. However, a week after the elections Suu Kyi was released from house arrest. This was followed by the appointment of Thein Sein as the President of a nominally civilian