NUG and family dismiss junta’s relocation claim, demand proof of life for Aung San Suu Kyi

Mizzima

The National Unity Government (NUG) and the family of Aung San Suu Kyi have rejected the military junta’s announcement regarding her transfer from Naypyidaw Prison to a “designated residence”, labeling it a deceptive political maneuver that fails to provide credible proof that the former leader is alive.

Nay Phone Latt, spokesperson for the NUG Prime Minister’s Office, told Mizzima that the footage aired on state-run MRTV on 30 April was merely a recording of an undated photograph.

“We cannot confirm when the photograph was taken, so it cannot be regarded as solid proof that she is alive and well,” he stated. He added that moving her to an undisclosed, unverified location is effectively just shifting her from one site of detention to another, rather than a genuine release.

The announcement showed only an undated photo of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi seated beside one person wearing a military uniform with his back facing the camera, and another person in a police uniform.

Commenting on the reported relocation, Nay Phone Latt said that keeping her at an undisclosed residence, with no known exact location, is effectively the same as detaining her at another site.

He pointed out that it is premature to describe the move as “house arrest,” since Aung San Suu Kyi has not been returned either to her residence 54 on University Avenue in Yangon or to the house where she previously stayed in Naypyidaw.

He stressed that the move is merely a political tactic by junta leader Min Aung Hlaing to seek international recognition for his presidency and sham government. He added that the revolutionary forces would not be deceived by the military junta’s actions and would continue firmly pursuing their objectives.

Similarly, Kim Aris (aka Ko Htein Lin), the younger son of Aung San Suu Kyi, issued a statement on the night of April 30 saying that his mother remains “a hostage.”

He called for proof that she is alive, stating that moving her from prison to a secret location does not mean she is free.

Kim Aris also criticized the move, saying it came immediately after statements from the China government and appeared to be a premeditated attempt to ease international pressure.

Following the military coup, Aung San Suu Kyi was sentenced to a total of 35 years in prison in connection with 19 cases. Since late 2022, she has been denied access to her lawyers. Even after recent sentence reductions including a one-sixth cut to her remaining term announced on 17 April and 30 April, along with earlier amnesties, she still has 18 years and nine months left to serve.

The military junta said the order was issued under Section 541, Sub-section (1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, allowing the remainder of her sentence to be served at a designated residence.