NPR: Buddhist Monks Continue Protest Despite Threats

Buddhist Monks Continue Protest Despite Threats

Buddhist monks and their supporters march in protest in Yangon today, despite stern warnings from Myanmar's junta.

AFP/Getty Images

Thousands of Buddhist monks continued their protests against the country's military rulers today in Myanmar, formerly Burma, despite threats of retaliation.

The monks and their civilian supporters again marched through the streets of Yangon, chanting, "We want dialogue" and "Democracy, democracy." The protests began Aug. 19 after the government sharply raised fuel prices.

Reuters reports that there were no overt signs of soldiers during the march, but police and military trucks drove into the city center after demonstrators left.

Monks have been passing out pictures of the late Aung San, an independence hero and the father of detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

The Bush administration has entered the fray, threatening further sanctions against the Myanmar government and those who fund it, The Associated Press reports. President Bush is expected to announce the sanctions during his speech today at the United Nations. U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice told Reuters that the U.S. also will step up pressure for U.N. Security Council action on Myanmar.

9:36 AM ET | 09-25-2007 | permalink

Comments (Send a comment)

I think it is a shame when I hear U.S. citizens talk about pride in their country, the predominant super-power, claiming to be the country that can be the global responsability holder, however, when asked about Myanmar's history, current political situation, or even geographic location, most American's end up ignorant and speechless. I think it would benefit the people of this country if News organizations included a relevent history of the country. If we are going to be the world leader, we better start acting like one.

Sent by chris | 1:44 PM ET | 09-25-2007

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