Myanmar junta to release more than 9,000 prisoners in annual amnesty

YANGON: Myanmar´s junta announced an amnesty for more than 9,000 prisoners on Thursday, part of an annual release to mark the country´s Independence Day.

The traditional event comes as the army, which took power in a military coup in 2021, faces growing resistance from allied groups in the country´s north. A coalition of ethnic armed groups has said it has captured military positions and border hubs vital for trade with China, posing a serious threat to the junta, according to analysts. Independence Day in Myanmar has previously been marked by a parade in the capital Naypyidaw, followed by an address from junta chief Min Aung Hlaing.