Myanmar frees two jailed journalists in mass amnesty ahead of election
JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 2 December 2025 | JP Asia Desk
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Two journalists, Sithu Aung Myint and Htet Htet Khine, were released from prison as part of a mass amnesty in Myanmar. Their release has sparked discussions about the state of press freedom in the country as elections approach.Summary
YANGON — The military government in Myanmar has released two well-known journalists, Sithu Aung Myint and Htet Htet Khine, under a mass amnesty announced ahead of elections. The move was confirmed by independent news outlet DVB on December 2.
Sithu Aung Myint had been arrested in August 2021 and convicted under Section 505-A of the Penal Code, accused of spreading false news and incitement against the military regime. Htet Htet Khine worked for BBC Media Action and was also imprisoned under similar charges. Both were reportedly released on November 30, along with thousands of other political detainees.
Press organisations and rights observers have viewed the amnesty as a politically motivated gesture timed to the upcoming 2025–2026 general election. The regime said the pardons were intended to allow eligible voters to participate freely.
Limited relief as wider crackdown continues
Though the release of the two journalists offers a rare reprieve, many independent media outlets remain under legal threat. Earlier in November 2025, the regime filed charges against exile-run AAMIJ News under a new Election Protection Law while its freelance contributor remains imprisoned.
What the release means for press freedom prospects
The amnesty may ease some immediate pressure on media workers and their families. Still, the broader environment remains hostile: dozens of reporters remain jailed under incitement or counter-terrorism laws, and independent outlets continue to operate under threat. Press freedom advocates warn that the selective release does not signal systemic reform.
ATTRIBUTION: Reporting based on DVB and Associated Press coverage
Key Points
- Sithu Aung Myint and Htet Htet Khine were released on Nov. 30 under a military amnesty.
- Both journalists were convicted under Section 505-A for incitement against the regime.
- The amnesty precedes the 2025–2026 general election, aimed at allowing voter participation.
- Press organizations view the release as selective and not indicative of wider reforms.
- The ongoing repression of independent media continues, highlighting systemic issues.
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