Myanmar's Mass Amnesty: A Political Gesture?

Myanmar's military government has announced the release of over 6,000 prisoners in a mass amnesty marking the 77th anniversary of independence from Britain. This act includes both political detainees and foreign criminals. However, prominent political figure Aung San Suu Kyi remains imprisoned.

In a significant political move, Myanmar's military junta released more than 6,000 prisoners, coinciding with the country's 77th Independence anniversary. This gesture reflects the regime's longstanding tradition of amnesties on national holidays and special occasions.

Included in the release are 5,864 domestic prisoners and 180 foreigners, mostly Thais and Indonesians, set for deportation. Remarkably, a limited number of political detainees, arrested post the 2021 military coup, benefited from this measure, a decision seen as strategic by many analysts.

The amnesty does not affect prominent opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who continues to serve a 27-year sentence. The announcement comes amidst ongoing national strife, with the military seeking legitimacy and tightening its grip on political rivals through extended terms and selective clemency.

(With inputs from agencies.)