Myanmar's Junta Frees Ex-President Win Myint In Amnesty, Suu Kyi's Sentence Reduced

Last Updated:April 18, 2026, 03:16 IST

Myanmar junta frees ex president Win Myint in mass amnesty, slightly reduces San Suu Kyi's 27 year sentence, UN urges release of all political prisoners and return to democracy.

Myanmar’s military junta have released former president Win Myint under a mass amnesty, while reducing the prison sentence of detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, sources said on Friday.

Win Myint, who had been held since the 2021 military coup, was pardoned of convictions handed down after the junta seized power and was freed on Friday, according to a spokesperson for his party.

Suu Kyi still in detention

Suu Kyi, an 80-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate, remains in custody despite the amnesty. A source familiar with her case said her 27-year prison sentence has been reduced, though the extent of the reduction remains unclear.

The commutation follows an order by junta chief Min Aung Hlaing to cut remaining sentences of prisoners serving terms under 40 years by one-sixth.

Leaders of civilian rule

Win Myint and Suu Kyi had led Myanmar during a decade-long experiment with civilian governance, which ended abruptly when the military overthrew their government in February 2021.

While Win Myint served as president from 2018, Suu Kyi was the country’s de facto leader, heading the National League for Democracy (NLD), despite being constitutionally barred from the presidency.

Both leaders were later convicted on multiple charges widely criticised by rights groups as politically motivated.

International calls for release

The partial relief has drawn renewed calls from the international community for broader action.

Volker Türk said all those detained since the coup should be released “immediately and unconditionally", including Suu Kyi.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres also urged swift steps toward releasing political detainees and restoring democratic rights.

His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said any viable political solution must involve an end to violence and inclusive dialogue.

Uncertain path ahead

While Win Myint’s release marks a notable development, Suu Kyi’s continued detention underscores the military’s grip on power and the uncertain future of democracy in Myanmar.

Analysts say the limited concessions are unlikely to ease international pressure unless accompanied by broader political reforms and the release of all political prisoners.

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