"Myanmar's Generals Deploy Giant Buddha Statue to Garner Support Amid Civil War"

Myanmar's military-controlled government has unveiled a giant sitting Buddha statue in the capital city of Naypyitaw, as part of their efforts to win hearts and minds during the ongoing civil war. The 228-acre site includes various structures and is set to be consecrated on August 1. The military government, led by Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, aims to showcase the flourishing of Theravada Buddhism in Myanmar and promote national prosperity and stability. The construction of giant Buddha statues is common in the Buddhist-majority country, serving as symbols of nationalism and religious merit. The military's brutal attacks and displacement of civilians have made their efforts to gain popular support challenging.