Kim Aris calls for unconditional release of Aung San Suu Kyi and all prisoners

Mizzima

Kim Aris, the son of detained democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, issued a statement on 21 April, describing recent prisoner amnesties in Myanmar as a strategy to gain international legitimacy rather than a sign of genuine reform.

The statement is as follows.

In light of recent developments in Burma, including the reported release of President U Win Myint, I would like to share my perspective as the son of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains unlawfully detained and cut off from the world.

While any release is welcomed, selective releases of a few individuals, while key elected leaders and thousands of political prisoners remain detained, do not represent meaningful progress.

This is a strategy by the military leadership under Min Aung Hlaing to ease international pressure and seek legitimacy without real change.

There is still no confirmed information about my mother’s situation. Reports that she may have been moved to house arrest remain unverified, and no official communication has been made to her family.

As a son, I ask for something simple.

If she is alive, please provide proof of life.

Key Quote

“This is not reform. It is a calculated attempt to gain international legitimacy while the reality in Burma remains unchanged. Releasing a few while thousands, including the true elected leaders, remain behind bars is an attempt to mislead the world.”

The reality in Burma has not changed. Many political prisoners remain behind bars.

Civilians continue to suffer.

World leaders must not mistake these actions for progress. Engagement without accountability risks legitimising ongoing repression.

What is needed is clear:

• The unconditional release of all political prisoners

• Verified information on those detained

• An end to violence against civilians

My appeal is simple. I want to know my mother is still alive and safe. I want to see her free.