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In Burma, five actors were jailed on Monday (April 22nd) for criticizing the army during Burmese New Year shows that mix poetry, dance and music. Forbidden under the military junta for over twenty years, this tradition that dates back to the nineteenth century is now threatened again. A new blow to freedom of expression in the country.
With our correspondent in Rangoon, Sarah Bakaloglou
" It's time to say goodbye ." This is the message addressed to the military by comedians, criticizing the role of the army in Burmese politics. Satirical songs, declaimed during traditional shows that denounce the situation of the country and tell the difficulties of the population.
A song that did not please the military, who complained twice, first against the broadcast of a live video of the performance then for disturbances to public order. Interpreters face up to two years in prison.
According to Human Rights Watch, these lawsuits are a new sign of criticism by the Burmese authorities, even when it takes the form of a satire. The government of Aung San Suu Kyi has also set up a censorship committee to control the upstream content of live entertainment.
With the coming into power of his party , the National League for Democracy, in 2016, many laws continue to be used to restrict freedom of expression in the country. According to the local organization Athan, more than 180 journalists and human rights activists have been prosecuted under the current government.