ASEAN Urges Myanmar to Free Aung San Suu Kyi

JAKARTA - The chairman of ASEAN 2026, the Philippines, urged Myanmar to immediately release pro-democracy politician Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners in a national amnesty for more than 4,000 prisoners in the country.

"In particular, we welcome the release of U Win Myint as a positive step towards inclusive national dialogue among all parties in Myanmar. In this regard, we also encourage the release of other prisoners in Myanmar, including Aung San Suu Kyi, in the spirit of true reconciliation and peace," the ASEAN Chair said in a statement.

U WinMyint is Myanmar's 10th president and Aung San Suu Kyi as state counselor, whose government was ousted in February 2021.

ASEAN reiterated its commitment to facilitate a lasting and sustainable solution to the political crisis in Myanmar, with a process led and regulated by Myanmar and in line with the Five Point Consensus (5PC).

The chairman of ASEAN 2026 stated that he still recognized Myanmar as an integral part of the organization and the 5PC was still the main reference for overcoming the political crisis in Myanmar.

ASEAN calls for an end to all hostilities in Myanmar and for all parties to refrain and ensure the safety of civilians.

The Chairman of ASEAN 2026 also encouraged all parties to create a conducive situation for the distribution of humanitarian aid in Myanmar.

In the same statement, the chairman of ASEAN 2026 also welcomed the amnesty for citizens of Southeast Asian countries and hoped that they could be repatriated immediately and safely.

Similar hopes were also conveyed to those who are still in detention, especially victims of human trafficking and other cross-border crimes.

In the run-up to Myanmar's New Year, local authorities announced an amnesty for 4,335 prisoners in the country.