Aung San Suu Kyi Transferred to House Arrest in Myanmar
Reports confirm that Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel laureate and former leader of Myanmar, has been relocated from prison to house arrest as stated by a spokesperson for the military government.
Myanmar's detained former leader and Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi has been transferred from prison to house arrest, according to a spokesperson for the military government.
"Due to the very hot weather, we are taking precautions to protect those in need, including elderly prisoners, from heatstroke," stated junta spokesperson Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun in remarks reported by four media outlets.
It was uncertain where Suu Kyi had been relocated to. Zaw Min Tun did not reply to requests for comment from Reuters. Suu Kyi, who is 78 years old, was kept in house arrest for a total of 15 years by a previous government at a rundown, colonial-style home by Inya Lake in Yangon. This is where she became well-known for giving passionate speeches to her supporters through the metal gates of the property.
Suu Kyi has been in military detention in Myanmar since the government was overthrown in a coup in 2021. She is currently facing charges that could result in a 27-year prison sentence, including treason, bribery, and violations of the telecommunications law. Suu Kyi has denied all the charges against her.
Myanmar military officers march during a parade to mark the 74th Armed Forces Day in Naypyitaw, Myanmar on March 27, 2019.
Myanmar military officers march during a parade to mark the 74th Armed Forces Day in Naypyitaw, Myanmar on March 27, 2019.
Aung Shine Oo/AP/File
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In February, Aung San Suu Kyi's son, Kim Aris, mentioned that she was being kept in solitary confinement. Despite her declining health, he shared that she remained in good spirits.
Many world leaders and pro-democracy activists have consistently urged for her release.
A spokesperson for the NUG shadow government has urged for the unconditional release of Myanmar's ousted president, U Win Myint, and Aung San Suu Kyi. According to media reports, Suu Kyi has also been placed under house arrest.
"Although moving them to houses is a positive step, it is important that they are released without any conditions. We demand that full responsibility be taken for the health and safety of Aung San Suu Kyi and U Win Myint," spokesperson Kyaw Zaw mentioned in a statement to Reuters on Tuesday.
Editor's P/S:
The news of Aung San Suu Kyi's transfer from prison to house arrest is a welcome development, albeit a small one. It is a testament to the international pressure that has been mounting on the military junta to improve the conditions of political prisoners. However, it is important to remember that Suu Kyi is still facing serious charges and could still be sentenced to a lengthy prison term. The international community must continue to press for her unconditional release and the restoration of democracy in Myanmar.
Suu Kyi's transfer to house arrest also raises questions about the junta's long-term plans for her. It is possible that the junta is trying to appease international criticism by making a small concession while maintaining its grip on power. It is also possible that the junta is preparing to release Suu Kyi in the future as part of a broader political settlement. Whatever the junta's intentions, it is clear that Suu Kyi's release would be a major step towards resolving the political crisis in Myanmar.
