The Burma Campaign UK today expressed concern at what appears to be a new crackdown on democracy activists in Burma. Two more dissidents were reportedly arrested this morning, and more arrests are expected to follow. Min Ko Naing, Ko Ko Gyi and Ko Htay Kyaw of the 88 Generation Students were arrested on Wednesday September 27th.
One of those arrested is Min Zeya, is also an 88 Generation Student leader, and had previously spent over eight years in prison. Lawyer U Aye Myint, who was recently released from prison following pressure from the ILO, is also believed to have been arrested, but reports are not yet confirmed.
“The international community must send a strong message to the regime that this new round of arrests is unacceptable,” said Mark Farmaner, Campaigns Manager at the Burma Campaign UK. “Anyone believing this regime is genuine about reforming is living in a fantasy land. These arrests demonstrate the need for a binding resolution by the UN Security Council requiring the restoration of democracy in Burma.”
Ironically, the arrests come just hours after UN Under-Secretary General Ibrahim Gambari had briefed the United Nations Security Council, and bizarrely claimed the regime was making progress in some areas, including the release of political prisoners. It throws further doubt on Gambari’s judgment and credibility, following his overly optimistic assessment of the prospects for Aung San Suu Kyi’s release when he visited Burma in May. The regime extended her house arrest for a year just days after his visit.
For more information, contact Mark Farmaner on 020 7324 4713