Man arrested for solo protest in Nay Pyi Taw

Phyo Wai Kyaw was arrested while carrying a placard near the statue of independence leader General Aung San, demanding the dismissal of a judge from a district court and elimination of court bribery.

“I didn’t want to stage a protest in this council area ruled by the president,” said Phyo Wai Kyaw, who alleged that he had lost a civil case for refusing to pay a bribe to a judge.

He said he sought permission to protest from the authorities several times but it was denied or delayed and he decided to protest without permission.   

According to a statement by the township police force, Phyo Wai Kyaw’s application for protest permit was turned down under Section 12 (e) of the Peaceful Assembly and Peaceful Procession Act which stipulates that protestors must not say things or behave in a way that could damage the country or the Union, race, religion, human dignity and moral principles.

The police arrested and filed a suit against Phyo Wai Kyaw under Section 18 of the law. He was later released on bail.