In a significant move, Myanmar’s military junta has granted amnesty to over 7,300 prisoners convicted of supporting terrorist groups, a designation often applied to pro-democracy activists and armed groups opposing military rule.
Since the 2021 coup, thousands of civilians and political figures, including supporters of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi, have been imprisoned under sweeping anti-terrorism laws.
Convictions under these laws carry life sentences or the death penalty for those accused of financing, sheltering, or transporting members of designated terrorist organizations.
The amnesty was ordered by junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, citing humanitarian considerations and public peace.
Government statements confirmed that nearly 12,500 individuals facing similar terrorism charges will have their cases dropped, though details of specific groups were not disclosed.
An AFP correspondent at Insein Prison—Myanmar’s notorious detention center known for rights abuses—reported seeing around 300 prisoners released in a convoy.
Relatives greeted them with flowers and banners, highlighting the emotional impact of the pardons.
Analysts interpret the amnesty as a strategic attempt to soften the junta’s image after recent elections, which critics claim were manipulated in favor of the military-backed party.
Despite these pardons, Suu Kyi remains imprisoned, her party dissolved, and the civilian government’s legitimacy is widely questioned.
The junta frequently issues amnesties during public holidays, including the release of over 2,800 other prisoners and 10 foreign nationals, although their offenses were not specified.
Observers note that while the government frames these releases as part of a phased return of power, much of the country remains under the control of rebel groups, and the military maintains significant influence.
The new parliament is scheduled to convene in two weeks, with a presidential election set for early April.
Meanwhile, the Myanmar amnesty underscores ongoing political tension and the fragile state of human rights in the country.
