Myanmar’s military government has freed 5,864 prisoners as part of an amnesty marking the 77th Independence Day. The release includes 180 foreign nationals. Myanmar often pardons large groups of prisoners on this occasion.
Who has been released?
Among those released, around 600 had been convicted under Section 505(A) of Myanmar’s penal code. This law punishes the spread of false information or activities that may incite unrest. Khet Aung, the former chief minister of Kachin state, is among the notable figures released. He had received a 12-year prison sentence for corruption following the military takeover in 2021.
Additionally, the amnesty also includes several foreign nationals. Most of the foreigners are Thai citizens who had been arrested for gambling in Tachileik. Some Indonesians, detained while in Myanmar’s territorial waters, are also part of the amnesty. The release process began on Saturday and will take several days to complete.
Aung San Suu Kyi’s status and the ongoing crisis in Myanmar
It remains unclear whether Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar’s deposed leader, is among those granted amnesty. Suu Kyi has been in detention since the military took power in 2021, serving a 27-year sentence for multiple charges. Many human rights organisations claim these convictions are politically motivated. Last year, reports suggested that Suu Kyi and other elderly prisoners had been moved to house arrest due to concerns about their health.
Since the coup, Myanmar has witnessed widespread violence. The military has severely repressed protests, resulting in over 4,000 civilian deaths, according to Amnesty International. As the junta promises elections this year, many see this as an attempt to placate international pressure. Opposition groups continue to criticise the military for its lack of genuine steps toward democratic reform.
