Rakhine NLD Secretary's Appeal Rejected - U Khin Hla

Original Source: Naw Say Paw - Democratic Voice of Burma
Translated: Nay Chi U - Who is Who in Burma

U Khin Hla, Secretary of National League for Democracy Party, Rakhine , who is serving 4 years in Than Dwe prison has had his appeal rejected by Than Dwe' District magistrate's court today, it is reported.

U Khin Hla was arrested on 28 November, put on trial, prosecuted and sentenced to 4 years and 3 months imprisonment on the same day. It was understood that the opportunity seeking local authorities took advantage of the family argument to seize him, although the family is now reconciled.

About 7000 locals had already added their signatures to a petition calling for the release of U Khin Hla and deputy secretary Ko Min Aung.

Three monks from Sittwe have been in prison and three others have been detained for interrogation. Ko Ye' Min Oo, a university student from Gwa and three other men have been also detained.

NLD member U Ye' Thein from Boo Thee Daung was arrested and sent to a psychiatric hospital.

U Than Hlaing, joint secretary of NLD Party, Rakhine said," At this crucial time, when all the selfishness and pride should be set aside and we should all be concentrating on holding the meaningful discussions, for the current and long-term benefit of the country's development and future. It is vital and most important that all the political prisoners are released immediately, otherwise, talking about meaningful discussions will be just like writing things on the surface of water. It will be just a joke and no one is going to believe it . And if the discussions are not happening , I am afraid, the unnecessary killings and sufferings will be going around like in a circle."