Number of Myanmar activists on trial doubles in 2015
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A total of 401 political activists faced trial in Myanmar in 2015, compared to 203 in 2014, according to data released by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP).
A total of 126 political prisoners were still detained in prisons by the end of 2015, while there were 81 detained at the end of 2014.
Aung Myo Kyaw from the AAPP said: “There are 126 political prisoners are in prisons currently. Moreover, another 400 activists are still on trial, mostly for charges under sections 505(b) and 18. This marks a steep increase from previous years.”
On average, five activists were put on trial every month in 2015. These include labour and farmer activists.
Aung Myo Kyaw continued: “There were demonstrations for the death of Ko Par Gyi and Khin Win in the Letpadaungtaung crisis. Also, student activists protesting the National Education Law were also detained. What is more, those who demonstrated for fair wages are also facing trial.”
The AAPP’s figures are based on the definition of a political prisoner devised at a workshop held in August 2014 by political parties and civic organisations.
A political prisoner is defined as a detainee who expresses his or her voice by means of print, speech, demonstration or other ways against policies and actions of the cabinet or three branches of the government in line with the constitution.
