Yangon: Myanmar’s military government has reduced the prison sentence of Aung San Suu Kyi, but the former leader remains in detention with no clear sign of release.
According to her lawyer, the Nobel laureate’s 27 year sentence has been cut by one sixth as part of a wider amnesty announced by the authorities. The move is linked to traditional New Year celebrations in the country.
Despite the reduction, there is no confirmation about where Suu Kyi is being held, and it remains unclear whether she will be transferred to house arrest or continue to serve her sentence in prison.
The amnesty was ordered by military chief Min Aung Hlaing, who led the 2021 coup that removed Suu Kyi’s elected government. The announcement includes the release or sentence reduction of more than 4,000 prisoners across the country.
Among those freed is former president Win Myint, a close ally of Suu Kyi. His release has drawn attention, but many political detainees are still believed to be in custody.
Suu Kyi has been detained since the military takeover and has faced a series of charges, including corruption and election related offences. Her supporters and international observers have long said the cases are politically motivated.
The 2021 coup led to widespread protests and a prolonged conflict across Myanmar. Thousands of people have been arrested, and the country continues to face instability.
International organisations and rights groups have again called for Suu Kyi’s full release, saying the latest move does not change the broader political situation.
The sentence reduction is seen by some observers as an attempt by the military leadership to ease pressure, but there is little indication of any major shift in the country’s political direction.