KNU says Government has acted in good faith by releasing Mahn Nyein Maung

The Karen National Union welcomed home its jailed leader Mahn Nyein Maung who was released from a life sentence under an amnesty issued by Burma’s President U Thein Sein. In a media statement released today, the KNU said the government’s release of Mahn Nyein Maung will help the peace process.

“The KNU believes that this act of the government strengthens the building of frank and durable relationship in the time of dialogue for peace with the KNU.”

Mahn Nyein Maung is a member of the KNU Central Standing Committee, who was recently given a life sentenced plus three years. The KNU leader was released on March 19th, under a pardon issued by President U Thein Sein.

The KNU said the return of Mahn Nyein Maung was welcomed and received warmly by its members. The KNU also called on the government to release all remaining political prisoners still in jail.

“Since the release of political prisoners is an important part in the process of building peace and reform, the KNU would like to urge U Thein Sein government to pardon and release unconditionally all the political prisoners, including those of the ethnic nationalities, remaining in the prisons of Burma (Myanmar).”