Eaint Poe Ou, widely known as “Pencilo,” has come under public scrutiny following renewed debate over her past fundraising activities for Myanmar’s revolutionary movement.
During the height of the post-2021 political crisis in Myanmar, Pencilo was actively involved in raising funds in support of the National Unity Government (NUG) and associated revolutionary forces. She publicly stated that she had raised approximately USD 11 million for the NUG through various fundraising campaigns.
In addition to funds reportedly raised for the NUG, Pencilo also led independent fundraising initiatives for separate projects between 2021 and 2024. Supporters contributed cash donations and, in some cases, valuable items, including inherited jewelry. These contributions were made amid widespread public solidarity with the anti-coup movement.
In 2025, Pencilo announced that she would cease fundraising activities, citing concerns related to transparency and accountability.
Recently, however, public criticism has intensified after she began selling jewelry during Facebook livestreams as part of a private business venture. Some donors allege that certain items being sold resemble or include jewelry originally donated during the fundraising period.
The situation has sparked debate among members of the public, with some expressing frustration and accusing her of exploiting the revolutionary cause for personal gain. Others have called for a transparent accounting of funds and donated assets to clarify the matter.
Critics now allege that she left Myanmar without directly participating in street protests and later relocated to the United States, bringing several family members, including extended relatives.
Further scrutiny has arisen over claims that within two years of arriving in the United States — after initially stating she had arrived with no financial resources — she purchased a home reportedly valued at over one million dollars in Sacramento, California.
In addition, it is reported that during her second year in the United States, she established a liquor store and a grocery store as part of her business ventures.
These developments have fueled questions among some members of the Myanmar diaspora regarding the sources of funding for her property acquisition and business investments. Supporters argue that entrepreneurial success is not evidence of wrongdoing, while critics are calling for financial transparency in light of her prior fundraising role.
The controversy continues to generate discussion across social media platforms, reflecting broader concerns over accountability in politically sensitive fundraising efforts.