Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar after they were
convicted of breaking the Official Secrets Act walked free from a
prison on the outskirts of Yangon on Tuesday
They were arrested for their exposure of various massacres on
Rohingya civilians.
It is finally Uhuru for two Reuters journalists who have been in
Myanmar prison for 500 days.
The two reporters, Wa Lone, and Kyaw Soe Oo, had been convicted
in September and sentenced to seven years in jail, in a case that
raised questions about Myanmar’s progress toward democracy and
sparked an outcry from diplomats and human rights advocates.
Upon their release, the journalists spoke on what it means to
finally be free
Speaking after their release, Journalist Wa Lone said: “We’re
really happy and excited to see our families and colleagues. I
don’t know what to say, we’re very excited.”
Also, journalist Kyaw Soe oo said: “I really want to meet my
family and I am supposed to go to the cinema with my family
tonight.”
The freedom of these journalists was brokered by Lord Ara Darzi,
who insists a lot had to be taken into consideration before they
were granted amnesty.
British Surgeon who helped broker the release of two
journalists, Lord Ara Darzi said: “It took time. It took time
because there is a strong belief in this country on the judiciary,
and seeing the whole pathway of the law taking its course. And I
was absolutely delighted this is an amazing day, the day that we
should all celebrate and also reflect on where this country’s
going.
Reuters Editor-in-Chief Steve Adler described the journalists as
“courageous reporters” and “symbols of the importance of press
freedom around the world.”
“We are enormously pleased that Myanmar has released our
courageous reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo. Since their arrest
five hundred and eleven days ago they have become symbols of the
importance of press freedom around the world. We welcome their
return.”
Their freedom comes after President Win Myint pardoned thousands
of prisoners in mass amnesties which began last month.
It is customary in Myanmar for authorities to free prisoners
across the country around the time of the traditional New Year,
which begins on the 17th of April.
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