Interview with satirical cartoonist Wai Yan (Taunggyi)

Interview with satirical cartoonist Wai Yan (Taunggyi)
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သျှမ်းသံတော်ဆင့်

In our country, we have only a handful of satirical cartoonists. Cartoonist Wai Yan from Taunggyi has become very popular on social media. He is a political cartoonist from Shan State. who has gone into hiding, in order to create satirical cartoons on the coup makers.

Drawing a cartoon is an art which can inspire a clear understanding of a situation. The carton which can reflect the current political situation is not an easy art.

The following is an interview with Cartoon Wai Yan (Taunggyi) about his activities.

Q: How about your current activities?

A: I am doing everything I can to support the revolution with my cartoons.

Q: How do you feel about the cartoons on the military council?

A: I satirize the military regime with my cartoon art. I am drawing cartoons to root out military dictatorship in terms of propaganda and psychological warfare.

Q: Did the ministry council issue warrant for anti-coup cartoons and search your house?

A: The junta side released false information about the arrest of me in Mandalay. I have not heard the issuance of an arrest warrant for me yet? But they may have released the warrant in secret. They will find nothing as I am in a liberated zone.

Q: To what extent are your cartoons effective in this revolution?

A: The public’s comments and appreciation of my cartoons motivate me when I feel depressed.  I think it is said to be effective to a certain degree if my cartoon can give a supporting to the public when they feel annoyed.

Q: What is the most important thing for the success of this revolution?

A: The main point for the success of this revolution is to be united. If the public can overwhelm the junta with our unity no matter what kinds of weapons the junta has, the people will gain the victory. Being united is first, our unity is second and unity is third.

Q: May I know your view on the revolution of Generation-Z (G-Z)?

A: I am satisfied with the G-Z’s work. I am happy when all generations play their part.

Q: Would you like to send a message to your audience about revolution?

A: Don’t feel depressed. We need to be patient hat as it takes time to root out an institution which has been entrenched for over 60 years. It is important for us to pressure the junta every second, minute and hours without getting depressed.

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