Myanmar’s military junta has released more than 200 political prisoners, including a key aide to deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi, in a move dismissed by critics as a pre-election “political façade.”
The releases occurred just weeks before a December 28 election, which the military government has scheduled.
Among those freed was U Kyaw Toe, a prominent figure from Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD) and her former information committee head. He had been imprisoned since 2021 following the military coup.
Sources from Insein Prison in Yangon reported approximately 200 individuals were released on the morning of November 28. Families gathered outside the prison, holding signs and embracing the freed detainees with tears.
U Kyaw Toe reportedly avoided making political comments upon his release. He did state his intention to remain strong and continue working with Suu Kyi, who remains detained in Naypyidaw.
The recent amnesty follows a broader announcement by the authorities to drop charges against 3,085 people. These charges were related to laws restricting freedom enacted after the coup.
However, the actual number of individuals released under this wider amnesty has been unclear, as many faced additional charges.
Human rights experts and some United Nations representatives view the upcoming election with skepticism. They suggest it is an attempt to project an image of reconciliation without genuine intent for the military to restore civilian rule.
The military junta recently enacted new legislation imposing prison sentences of up to 10 years for criticizing or protesting the planned election.
Despite the limited releases, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) reports that the junta continues to hold over 22,000 political dissidents across Myanmar.