Myanmar’s Weaponization of COVID-19 including terms like the “possible streamlining” of guarantees that the Myanmar state is and has of travel authorizations and claims that been willing to provide regarding humanitarian consultations access to conflict areas. with aid providers were “underway” – exemplifies the fundamental lack Coronavirus as an opportunity for political party promotion The Conservative – a Facebook page which coronavirus. Included with the post were describes itself as “promoting patriotism” photos of bleach packs featuring the political – is known for sharing news related to the parties’ logos. People Media also accused the military and the military-backed USDP. On NLD on 30 March of selling masks with its logo 10 April, it posted an announcement that the for 800 kyat in Yangon’s Bahan Township; a USDP had donated 820,000 medical masks party spokesperson described the action as to people throughout the country. Two days “unacceptable” and said that the party would earlier the site praised political parties – respond accordingly. The symbolism of these including the USDP, the NLD, the National political entities embedded in COVID-19 Democratic Force (NDF), the People’s Party, relief efforts is particularly conspicuous during and the People’s Pioneer Party – for all spraying an election year; voting in Myanmar is still disinfectant expected to be held in November 2020. in communities to prevent From left, bleach disinfectant cannisters marked with the USDP logo; people wearing t-shirts representing the People’s Party distribute hand sanitizer. Posted on 8 April 2020. (Photos: The Conservative / Facebook) 37