In this recent image by the Burmese cartoonist JMP, a distressed Min Aung Hlaing admits to a nearby attendant, "I really don't know what to do if we maintain control after the coup. I mean, I clearly don't have a plan!" To which the staffer responds, "Why don't we hold a contest, like 'Who has the fattest belly?'"

The absurdity of such a dialog requires one to untangle the meaning behind the image. Firstly, the cartoon is a clear condemnation of how poorly Min Aung Hlaing planned not only the attempted coup, but also the possibility of further administration. This is something that many Burmese have been commenting on, noting that if past dictators such as Ne Win or Than Shwe had been at the helm, the democracy movement would have been suppressed long ago.

The cartoon also hits upon both the literal as well as metaphorical "fat" of senior generals as the conflict wanes on. While it should be mentioned that it may not be so sensitive to engage in any kind of commentary that touches upon "fat shaming," there is more here to examine from a Myanmar context. In a country facing severe food shortages arising from the military's tight grip, Burmese can't help but notice that senior military leaders-- alongside senior monks-- are only gaining weight, which indicates not only their access to premium foods, and in the military's case, perhaps a steady diet of imported liquor, beer, and cigarettes. In other words, enjoying the high life while their country continues to burn-- and while many of them may be getting a "fat" profit from their corrupt connections to boot. Additionally, the reference to weight may be metaphorical in its indication of the military's extreme greed and selfishness.

But it's also worth examining the simple question and answer here on its own merits. JMP is revealing that apart from their insatiable appetite for greed and profit, none of these military leaders have any idea (or interest) in actually running a country! So distanced are they from any real governance that when the mere thought of doing so comes up, they haven't a clue what to say, and can only provide ridiculous ideas in return.