The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar has claimed 3,354 lives, with 4,850 injured and 220 still missing, state media reported Saturday, as United Nations aid chief Tom Fletcher lauded the heroic efforts of local humanitarian workers.
Fletcher, who spent Friday night in Mandalay near the earthquake’s epicenter, praised community groups for their “courage, skill and determination” in responding to the crisis, noting that many aid workers had lost everything yet continued supporting survivors.
The March 28 earthquake has compounded Myanmar’s existing humanitarian challenges, occurring amidst an ongoing civil war that has displaced over 3 million people and left more than a third of the population requiring assistance.
Military leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing returned to the capital after attending a regional summit in Bangkok, where he met with several national leaders and reaffirmed plans to hold elections in December.
However, international critics have dismissed the planned elections as a potential mechanism for the military to maintain power through proxy representatives.
The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights raised concerns about the military government’s aid distribution, alleging restrictions in areas not supporting the junta’s rule. The office is also investigating 53 reported attacks against opponents, including 16 that occurred after a recent ceasefire declaration.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for the ceasefire to become permanent and emphasized the need for “inclusive and credible” elections.
The earthquake has further exposed Myanmar’s fragile infrastructure and the deep challenges facing the country since the 2021 military coup that ousted the civilian government.
As recovery efforts continue, international attention remains focused on the humanitarian crisis and the potential for meaningful political resolution.
