Call to participate in 8888 'Umbrella Strike' prioritizing safety

Photo – Showing the pre-event umbrella strike activity for the 38th anniversary of the 8888 Uprising Democracy Movement in front of the ICJ (International Court of Justice) on July 29, 2026. (Yangon People's Strike) Maung Khet Nye (August 6) Mizzima. || Ko Libera, an official from the Yangon People's Strike, told Mizzima that citizens inside the country should prioritize their safety and participate in various ways in the upcoming 38th anniversary of the 8888 Uprising Democracy Movement '8888 Umbrella Strike Activity'. He advised that as the situation of strict urban crackdowns and arrests by the military junta continues, the lives and safety of the people are of utmost importance, and therefore, they should choose methods suitable to their circumstances to participate in the movement. "Although it is called the 8888 Umbrella Strike, it is not an activity that everyone must participate in the same way. As the number '8' is written on the umbrella, participation can be in various forms that are convenient for our circumstances and safety, including activities using other symbols related to the number 8, and tying roses and sprigs of paddy to the top of the umbrella. It is not just an on-ground activity; even if it is an online activity, the most important thing is that the voice of the people for democracy and freedom does not disappear," Ko Libera told Mizzima. Furthermore, he urged urban activists, those in liberated areas, and Myanmar citizens abroad to connect and participate unitedly as a Global Action. As a precursor to the activity, on July 29, a protest was held in front of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Netherlands, using red umbrellas with the symbol '8' and a picture of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. It is understood that this activity was to demand the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who has been held as a political hostage, and to ensure international justice and accountability for the military's human rights violations. Ko Libera added that although the people may be physically and mentally exhausted due to the prolonged period of revolution, they have not given up and will continue to strive until the full will of the people is achieved, passing on the belief in democracy and the spirit of the new generation. Editor – Thant Zaw (Thanlyin)