Breaking Ranks

Insight Myanmar

Episode #274: Kyaw San Han, a former police captain turned dissident, offers a stark narrative of courage amid systemic oppression. Fleeing Myanmar with his family, he now lives in Japan, where he continues to advocate for democracy and resistance against the military junta.

His journey began in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis, a natural disaster that exposed the military's indifference to civilian suffering. Motivated by a desire to help, he joined the police force, only to encounter a regime intent on perpetuating fear and corruption. The police training he underwent was akin to prison, filled with physical abuse and brainwashing, designed to mold officers into instruments of oppression.

Despite these challenges, Kyaw San Han remained steadfast in his commitment to justice. His pivotal role in aiding the Australian economic adviser, Professor Sean Turnell, underscores this dedication. Facing threats from superiors and navigating a treacherous escape to Thailand and then Japan, his story is a testament to resilience.

In Japan, Kyaw San Han now collaborates with the National Unity Government, tirelessly advocating for international support against the junta. His narrative illuminates the profound courage required to stand against tyranny and the unyielding hope for a democratic future in Myanmar.

“I would like all of you understand the brutality of the Myanmar junta and Min Aung Hlaing,” he says. “He is using his last strategy to make civilians fight each other! So, please, share my voice and my message to your friends and your family and everyone you know. If there is no dictator Min Aung Hlaing and his brutal regime, Myanmar will be a beautiful a peaceful country as we used to be in the past. Now the people of Myanmar are suffering a lot from the dictator Min Aung Hlaing. But the people of Myanmar, actually, we are kind and we are very friendly. So, now we need help from all of us from all of you.”