Myanmar Junta releases almost 6,000 prisoners to mark independence day

To mark Myanmar’s 77th Independence Day, the country’s Junta Government on Saturday announced the release of nearly 6,000 prisoners.

The annual amnesty comes amid ongoing political turmoil following the military’s coup in February 2021, which ended a brief period of democratic governance.

The junta disclosed that over 5,800 individuals, including 180 foreign nationals, are set to be freed.

Among those pardoned, approximately 600 were convicted under Section 505 (a) of the penal code, a law that penalizes actions deemed to undermine the military, carrying a maximum sentence of three years.

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The junta spokesperson, Zaw Min Tun in an audio statement on Saturday to the media confirmed that “most” foreign prisoners granted amnesty were Thai nationals detained for involvement in border casino operations.

The military said it ordered the pardons “on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.”

The government stated that the pardons were issued on humanitarian grounds. Also, the sentences of 144 prisoners serving life terms were reduced to 15 years.

Myanmar has a tradition of granting mass amnesties to commemorate national holidays and Buddhist festivals.

In 2024, the junta released over 9,000 prisoners during Independence Day celebrations.

A ceremony in Naypyidaw, Myanmar’s capital, marked the occasion, attended by about 500 government and military officials.

Deputy army chief Soe Win delivered a speech on behalf of junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, calling for national unity and urging armed ethnic groups to resolve conflicts through peaceful dialogue.

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