The article by Ei Ei Toe Lwin for Frontier discusses the controversial issue of capital punishment in Myanmar. Despite not having executed anyone since the late 1980s, Myanmar continues to sentence individuals to death, particularly for heinous crimes like child rape. The article recounts the story of Ko Than Zaw, an NLD activist who was wrongfully sentenced to death in 1989. It highlights the debate between those who wish to retain the death penalty for severe crimes and human rights activists who seek its abolition, arguing it is inhumane and subject to misuse by the state. The article also touches on the legal process surrounding executions in Myanmar, the role of presidential pardons in commuting death sentences, and the international perspective on Myanmar's death penalty status. The piece concludes with the stance of various stakeholders on the issue, including civil society groups, the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, and the European Union, which commends Myanmar for being 'abolitionist in practice' but urges formal abolition of capital punishment.

Journalist Ei Ei Toe Lwin recounts the tense and uncertain days surrounding the military coup in Myanmar. Initially in Nay Pyi Taw to cover the opening of the national parliament, the journalist and colleagues faced rumors of a coup on January 31, which materialized overnight as the military detained senior members of the National League for Democracy, including Aung San Suu Kyi. The following days saw a telecommunications shutdown, the military declaring a state of emergency, and journalists scrambling to report under the new regime, with many going into hiding. Ridiculous charges were brought against the detained leaders, and the journalist reflects on the stark contrast to the hopeful atmosphere surrounding the 2015 elections, recognizing the return of fear and repression reminiscent of Myanmar's darker times.