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Pope expresses ‘solidarity with the people’ of Myanmar

by Dominick Mastrangelo - 02/07/21 10:13 AM ET

Pope Francis expressed sympathy for the people of Myanmar as the country grapples with a military coup that has toppled its leader and remains in a state of crisis.

The Pope said this weekend he has been following the events unfolding in Myanmar with “deep concern,” according to Reuters.

“In this very delicate moment, I want to again assure my spiritual closeness, my prayers and my solidarity with the people of Myanmar,” the Pope said. “I pray that those in positions of responsibility in the country show sincere willingness to serve the common good, promoting social justice and national stability for a harmonious and democratic co-existence.”

Leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other National League for Democracy party officials were taken into custody by military authorities nearly a week ago during overnight raids.

Military leaders have grown unhappy with Suu Kyi for what they allege to be corrupt election systems and her ignoring of their concerns.

Demonstrations demanding she be released have grown in recent days and nation’s around the world have condemned the coup. President Biden has threatened U.S. sanctions if Suu Kyi is not returned to power.

The Pope said on Sunday he feels “solidarity with the people” demonstrating in Myanmar and asked military leaders and opposition forces to work toward a “democratic” solution.

Hundreds of lawmakers from Suu Kyi’s party were reportedly being held at gunpoint as of last week and military leaders have said they plan to retain control of the government for at least a year.

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