HUMAN RIGHTS EXPERT DISTURBED OVER REPORTS OF AUNG SAN SUU KYI HUNGER STRIKE

2 September 2003






The Special Rapporteur of the Commission on Human Rights on the situation in Myanmar, Prof. Paulo Sergio Pinheiro, is deeply disturbed by reports that Aung San Suu Kyi, General Secretary of the National League for Democracy, is on hunger strike.

Although restrictions on information make it impossible to confirm this news, the Special Rapporteur remains gravely concerned by the continued detention of Aung San Suu Kyi in an undisclosed location, as well as by the impact of her confinement on her safety and health.

The Special Rapporteur reiterates his earlier appeals to the Government of Myanmar to release Aung San Suu Kyi immediately and unconditionally, and underlines once again the Government's responsibility for her protection and safety. He also repeats his calls for the release without delay of all other persons imprisoned for the peaceful expression of their views.




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