Chrysler calls for release of Aung San Suu Kyi

Image via Wikipedia

Posted on December 7, 2009
Filed Under Burma news | Leave a Comment

In what may seem like a cynical attempt to garner some goodwill by a troubled company, carmaker Chrysler has launched a new commercial in which it calls for the release of Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
The company says the commercial for the Chrysler 300 is meant to demonstrate its commitment to supporting social issues and defending human rights around the world.
Until now, advocacy campaigns for Burma have mostly been by celebrities and pressure groups like the US Campaign for Burma.
The involvement of a large corporation can only be good. Even if their goals, like the commercial are largely self-serving.
The auto industry is struggling to regain the public trust after large bailouts from several governments earlier this year, which appears to be pushing them towards more populist subjects.
Oliver Francois, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC, who is also the Managing Director of Lancia Automobiles said, “We produced the TV film in honour of all those who put their lives at stake in the hopes of making the world a better place.”
“In particular, those men and women who are still prisoners like Aung San Suu Kyi. For Chrysler, this is a chance to use our brand image to join with others in the fight for peace and to knock down the walls that divide us. We at Chrysler believe in doing the right thing and making a difference.”