MNHRC Statement: Commission welcomes the amnesty orders

Myanmar National Human Rights Commission released a statement welcoming recent government orders that freed or reduced sentences for people jailed under Penal Code 505(a) and dismissed ongoing cases for those who had been in hiding.

Orders issued on 26 November released 724 prisoners and granted reduced sentences to 2,361 prisoners convicted under 505(a). Another order dropped cases for 5,580 people who had been charged under 505(a) or for avoiding arrest.

The Commission said these actions will allow those released to regain their voting rights and participate freely in the upcoming multiparty democratic election. It also noted that people who had been in hiding can now reunite with their families and vote peacefully.

The Commission stated that it has long recommended fair consideration for all types of cases and welcomed the government’s decision as a positive step for human rights and fundamental freedoms.