52 political prisoners released in amnesty

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52 political prisoners released in amnesty

Myanmar Times, 22 Jan 2016

URL: http://www.mmtimes.com/index.php/national-news/18625-52-political-prisoners-released-in-surprise-amnesty.html
More than 50 political prisoners, including one New Zealander, have walked free from prisons across Myanmar today, in a presidential amnesty for over 100 inmates.

“As far as we know, 52 political prisoners [have been released] from prisons in Mandalay, Tuangoo, Insein, Hpa-an, Myitkyina and Putao,” the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners - Burma (AAPPB) chair U Bo Kyi said.

U Zaw Htay, director of the president’s office, said President U Thein Sein had pardoned 102 prisoners following requests of many organizations. He said the president was working for the future of the country.

U Bo Kyi said while today’s release is a step in the right direction, there are still 409 political cases in the pipeline with 114 behind bars awaiting trial.