It now appears that my innate cynicism was concerning Myanmar’s State Peace and Development Council, i.e. military dictators, ability to ease the detention of Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi was well founded. No less a figure than Tint Swe, member of the National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma also calls bullshit.

From AsiaNews:

Signals of optimism are coming from all corners, but when it comes to Burma, there are four strategically important nations and blocs, namely China, ASEAN, India as well as America and the European Union, whose views must be taken into consideration. Hence, the news might seem good and full of hope. It is something like the days when Aung San Suu Kyi was first freed from house arrest in 1995. It is wise however to point out what happened in the 14 years that followed her release: generals remained on top, prisoners went to jail, Aung San Suu Kyi was kept in her home; in short, no changes.

So why all the furor?

[W]hen Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said that Suu Kyi might be able to play an active role in society and possibly, in politics again, he was using a diplomatic expression that can be interpreted as meaning “no”.

Still, all participants were overwhelmed as Burma’s prime minister said that the ruling junta saw a role for Aung San Suu Kyi in the process of reconciliation leading up to elections in 2010.

When the bullshit pile reaches a certain height, even the jaded can take notice.