Aung San Suu Kyi ill but denied urgent care, says son

Aung San Suu Kyi is being denied medical care despite her ill health, according to her son, Kim Aris. 

He said the junta ruling the country – after they ousted the Myanmar leader in a military coup in 2021 – is blocking requests for his mother’s “urgent care.” 

Sources told BBC Burmese severe toothaches have left the Aung San Suu Kyi, 78, unable to eat. 

However, a junta spokesman said the former leader is in good health and gets check-ups from military and civilian doctors. 

She was ousted in a coup in February 2021 and in July was moved from prison to house arrest in the Burmese capital Nay Pyi Taw, but its unclear where in the city she is being held. 

“To deny a sick prisoner access to recommended medical care is callous and cruel,” Aris said in a text message to BBC Burmese.

“Anyone who has such painful gum disease that they are unable to eat obviously has their entire health at risk if suitable treatment is denied.”