PEC calls on Myanmar's government to free more than 40 imprisoned journalists
PEC calls on Myanmar's government to free more than 40 imprisoned journalists
The Press Emblem Campaign (PEC) has condemned Myanmar’s military government for imprisoning over 40 journalists and called for their immediate release. Since the February 1, 2021, coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government, more than 200 journalists have been detained, with at least seven killed, according to the Independent Press Council Myanmar (IPCM). Eleven journalists face lengthy prison terms, while others remain in custody without disclosure.
The military regime has been accused of using strict laws, including the Immigration Act, Counter-Terrorism Law, and Telecommunications Law, to arbitrarily detain media professionals. PEC President Blaise Lempen criticized the persecution of journalists, urging the regime to release all detainees and compensate the families of those killed.
PEC’s Southeast Asia representative, Nava Thakuria, highlighted the crackdown’s deadly toll, listing slain journalists such as Ko Myat Thu Tun (DVB), Htet Myat Thu (Voice of Thanbyuzayat), and Aye Kyaw (freelancer). Many media workers have fled the country to escape repression. IPCM continues documenting these violations, with details available on PEC’s official website (www.pressemblem.ch).
