Myanmar junta frees more than 6,000 prisoners in annual amnesty

Sunday 04 January 2026 - 09:30

By: Sahili Aya

Myanmar junta frees more than 6,000 prisoners in annual amnesty

Myanmar’s military authorities announced on Sunday the release of more than 6,000 inmates as part of an annual amnesty marking the country’s national day. The decision was presented as a humanitarian gesture linked to the anniversary of Myanmar’s independence from British colonial rule.

According to an official statement, the amnesty applies to thousands of men and women held in prisons, detention centers, and labor camps across the country. In addition, several dozen foreign nationals are expected to be freed and subsequently deported.

Since the military seized power in February 2021, Myanmar has been plunged into a prolonged civil conflict. Thousands of protesters, political activists, and opposition figures have been arrested during crackdowns on dissent, drawing widespread international criticism.

On the day of the announcement, families gathered outside major detention facilities, including Yangon’s Insein Prison, hoping for the release of their relatives. While such amnesties are a recurring practice during national celebrations, rights groups caution that many political detainees remain behind bars.

The prisoner release comes amid continued political tension, as the military-backed authorities push forward with an electoral process that has been rejected by much of the opposition and the international community, who question its credibility and inclusiveness.