NAYPYIDAW — Myanmar’s military Junta has announced a mass amnesty for more than 7,000 prisoners to mark Farmer’s Day on March 2.
The move includes the release of individuals detained under controversial anti-terrorism laws frequently used to target political dissidents and journalists since the 2021 coup.
According to Order No. (8/2026), 7,337 prisoners convicted under Sections 50(j) and 52(a) of the Counter-Terrorism Law were granted amnesty.
These specific sections—dealing with the financing of and communication with “terrorist organizations”—carry sentences ranging from several years to life imprisonment.
Myanmar Military Junta releases over 7,000 prisoners
Additionally, the council announced the dismissal of over 9,500 pending court cases involving approximately 12,487 individuals.
However, legal experts and activists remain skeptical, labeling the release a “superficial gesture” aimed at easing international pressure.
“Looking at the specific sections being cleared, it’s evident they are targeting political detainees to create a positive image for the international community,” a senior lawyer told MPA.
The amnesty was granted under Section 401(1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, a conditional release which stipulates that if the individuals are re-arrested, they must serve the remainder of their original sentence in addition to any new penalties.
The announcement comes amidst reports of continued violence in the country’s heartland.
Activists pointed out the stark contrast between the junta’s “Farmer’s Day” message and recent military actions. Just a day prior, on March 1, an airstrike in Magway Region’s Mindon Township reportedly killed at least 25 civilians.
“They are bombing farmers in the fields while putting on a show of mercy in the capital,” one activist remarked.
While thousands are being released, prominent political leaders and many others unjustly detained remain behind bars. Monitoring groups, including the Political Prisoners Network Myanmar (PPNM), stated they are closely verifying the actual number of political detainees being freed on the ground.
The move also coincides with growing economic instability in Myanmar, exacerbated by regional fuel shortages. Analysts suggest the mass release may be a tactic to distract the public from soaring commodity prices and the regime’s struggle to maintain control over the economy.
