Myanmar's former leaders Aung San Suu Kyi and U Win Myint shifted from prison to house arrest
- In Reports
- 12:28 PM, Apr 17, 2024
- Myind Staff
Myanmar's detained former leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, and the ousted president, U Win Myint, have been transferred from prison to house arrest, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the military government.
Significantly, the Junta has announced a pardon for more than 3,300 prisoners as part of a routine amnesty, coinciding with the country's traditional New Year festival.
Myanmar military leaders, in a statement, announced that all remaining prisoners, excluding those convicted of serious offences such as murder, terrorism, and drug charges, will receive a reduction of one-sixth in their sentences.
Junta spokesperson Major General Zaw Min Tun, addressing the press, cited extreme heat as the rationale behind the relocation. He stressed the importance of safeguarding ageing prisoners from heat-related ailments, stating, "This applies not only to Aung San Suu Kyi but to all individuals requiring necessary precautions, particularly elderly inmates, to prevent heatstroke."
This development comes amidst widespread international appeals for the release of Suu Kyi, a Nobel laureate who has been held under military detention since the 2021 coup.
Currently, Suu Kyi is serving a 27-year prison term on multiple charges, including treason and bribery. Her convictions stem from closed-door trials under military control, widely condemned internationally as fraudulent.
The pro-democracy leader was found guilty of numerous offences, including incitement, election fraud, corruption, and breaching state secrecy laws. Since her detention, both she and her supporters have vigorously refuted the allegations against her.
For over two years, there has been scant information regarding Suu Kyi's condition, prompting concerns about her well-being during confinement. Recent rumours suggesting her illness have heightened anxieties regarding her health.
Previously, reports in February from her son, Kim Aris, indicated that while the Nobel laureate's health may have declined compared to the past, she is in stable spirits.
The National Unity Government (NUG), a shadow government opposing military rule, has viewed the decision to transfer Suu Kyi and Myint to house arrest positively. However, they insist on the unconditional release of both figures.
NUG spokesperson Kyaw Zaw stressed that while the relocation to houses is a positive step, it must be followed by the unconditional release of Suu Kyi and U Win Myint. He emphasised that the Junta must bear full responsibility for their health and security.
Since the 2021 coup, the nation has plunged into civil conflict, claiming thousands of lives thus far. Despite international sanctions imposed on the military regime, the escalating violence has shown no signs of abating.
Image source: AP News
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