The U.N. Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Burma, Tomás Ojea Quintana, has called for the immediate and systematic release of prisoners of conscience without conditions.
“I am encouraged by the momentum of reform and the gradual steps taken by the government towards national reconciliation,” Ojea Quintana said. “However, I renew my call for the immediate and systematic release of all prisoners of conscience.”
The independent expert stressed the need for a comprehensive and thorough investigation to clarify records of remaining prisoners of conscience and called on the government to initiative consultations with all stakeholders to gather relevant information.
2012.07.06 Mizzima -UN Rapporteur
“While we welcome the latest releases, it is crucial that the Myanmar authorities release all other remaining prisoners of conscience, imprisoned solely for the peaceful expression of their beliefs”, said Amnesty International’s Benjamin Zawacki.
“At least 400 more political prisoners remain behind bars in Myanmar. Even if they are alleged to have committed or advocated violence, they should be afforded a fair trial under an internationally recognized offence or be released.”
Sentences of the political prisoners released varied from 3 years to one person serving life.
According to some reports, the former prisoners could still have their sentences reinstated, however, as conditions under Myanmar’s Criminal Code are attached to their releases.
“With the assistance of the UN, the Myanmar government must now establish a mechanism to review the cases of all prisoners there to determine the true reason that they were arrested,” said Zawacki.
“Since there are undoubtedly political prisoners in Myanmar whose names have not been recorded — particularly in ethnic minority areas — this review process should go well beyond even the longest of the outstanding lists.
“For some of those released, psycho-social problems including post-traumatic stress disorder for victims of torture and solitary confinement, will require urgent attention and resources for rehabilitation purposes,” said Zawacki.
2012.07.04 Amnesty International 2012.07.06 Mizzima - release-all-remaining-prisoners-of-conscience