» 06/24/2009 13:03 MYANMAR Aung San Suu Kyi thankful for greetings. The junta arrest those who pray for her release The Burmese Opposition leader "regrets” that she cannot personally thank those who marked her birthday at home and abroad. The military has arrested two members of the NLD for taking part in a ceremony in which they asked for freedom for political prisoners.
Yangon (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Aung San Suu Kyi has expressed "regret" because she can not "personally thank" those who sent her best wishes June 19th last for her 64th birthday, refers Nyan Win, the lawyer of the Burmese leader, who has been in prison for over a month for violating the terms of house arrest. The military junta, meanwhile, has sentenced to 18 months in prison two members of the National League for Democracy (NLD) for "insulting religion"; they are guilty of praying for the health and the release of Nobel Peace Prize.
The Court decision regarding the re-admission of two witnesses for the defence, initially thrown out by judges, is expected today. During the meeting with her lawyer, Aung San Suu Kyi apparently outlined steps to take ahead of the next hearing of the case brought against her by the military junta, which is scheduled for June 26. "The only thing I can say - Nyan Win added - is that the Lady would like to thank all those who have sent her best wishes, at home and abroad."
To celebrate her birthday, the Burmese opposition leader ordered 50 packets of Biryani rice, chocolate sweets and flowers that she distributed to fellow prisoners and prison guards. Her lawyer reports that her health conditions are "very good" and there is a doctor inside the prison who "takes care of her."
On June 22nd Twantay court sentenced to 18 months in prison Chit Pe, vice-president of the local section of the NLD, and Aung Soe Wai for insulting religion. Both were arrested in April for taking part in a Buddhist religious ceremony - along with 50 other members of the NLD - which called for the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners. Three other activists were on trial in Yangon, they are generically accused of violating the “Explosive Act”, but there is no additional information about their case.
