Myanmar pro-democracy leader Tin Oo dies at 97

Tin Oo, a prominent figure in Myanmar's pro-democracy movement and close ally of detained Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, has died at the age of 97. He was hospitalized due to health issues, including difficulty urinating and weakness, but the exact cause of death has not been disclosed. Tin Oo played a pivotal role in founding the National League for Democracy (NLD) in 1988 following a failed revolt against military rule. Despite enduring years of detention, both in jail and under house arrest, he remained a steadfast advocate for democracy until his release in 2010.

Tin Oo's background was notable for his transition from a senior military officer to a vocal critic of military rule. He was a senior leader and patron of the NLD when the party resumed political activities and was respected by his party members for his outspokenness and courage. Although there was speculation that he might become president due to constitutional restrictions on Suu Kyi, Tin Oo consistently rejected the idea. His legacy continues to influence Myanmar's pro-democracy movement, which faced significant challenges following the military coup in 2021.