Reuters journalists freed from Myanmar prison
YANGON: 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 yesterday after spending more than 500 days behind bars.
The two reporters, Mr Wa Lone, 33, and Mr Kyaw Soe Oo, 29, 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.
They were released under a presidential amnesty for 6,520 prisoners yesterday. President Win Myint has pardoned thousands of other prisoners in mass amnesties since last month.
It is customary in Myanmar for authorities to free prisoners across the country around the time of the traditional New Year, which began on April 17.
Reuters had said the two men did not commit any crime and had called for their release.
Swamped by media and well-wishers as they walked through the gates of Insein Prison, a grinning Mr Wa Lone gave a thumbs up and said he was grateful for the international efforts to secure their freedom.
"I'm really happy and excited to see my family and my colleagues. I can't wait to go to my newsroom," he said.
Mr Kyaw Soe Oo smiled and waved to reporters.
The two were then driven away by colleagues and reunited with their wives and children - REUTERS
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now
