1 JUNE 2017

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Accessed June 2017

JUNE CHRONOLOGY 2017

Summary of the Current

Situation:

There are 212 individuals

oppressed in Burma due to political activities,

41 political prisoners are

serving prison sentences,

49 are awaiting trial inside

prison,

122 are awaiting trial outside

prison.

2 JUNE 2017

Table of Contents POLITICAL PRISONERS ................................................................................................ 3

▪ ARRESTS ............................................................................................................... 3

▪ CHARGES .............................................................................................................. 4

▪ DETENTIONS ...................................................................................................... 6

▪ TRIALS ................................................................................................................... 7

▪ SENTENCES ......................................................................................................... 8

▪ CONDITIONS OF IMPRISONMENT ........................................................... 9

▪ RELEASES ......................................................................................................... 11

▪ FORMER POLITICAL PRISONERS .......................................................... 13

RESTRICTIONS ON CIVIL AND POLITICAL RIGHTS ..................................... 15

LEGISLATION AND POLICY DEVELOPMENTS ................................................ 22

REFERENCES ................................................................................................................. 23

3 JUNE 2017

POLITICAL PRISONERS▪ ARRESTS

Arrest Warrant for Farmers and Activists After Revoked Bail On June 1, Pyin Oo Lwin Township Court, Mandalay, revoked bail for twelve farmers and two activists, who were arrested in October 2016 for staging a protest over land confiscation (See October Chronology). In accordance with procedures, the court then issued an arrest warrant. Their lawyer commented that although the warrant is in accordance with the law, the legal action against them has been unfair since the beginning. (16 June 2017 - Eleven Myanmar)

13 Arrested, 4 Released and 1 Killed After Interrogation in Shane State On June 27, according to Manlang village administrator, Kyaw Soe, 13 civilians were arrested by Military soldiers for making video recordings with their phones of a live battle between the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and the Military. One released resident, Kyaw Soe, reported that he along with three other residents were release on June 28. One individual, named Apyaw, who supposedly suffers from a psychological illness, died following interrogation from soldiers. Apyaw’s remains were dressed in a TNLA uniform and were left by the side of a road near the fighting. AAPP is currently trying to identify the other 9 civilians being detained and obtain more information regarding their detention. (27 June 2017 - Radio Free Asia/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - Radio Free Asia)

Lawsuit Filed Against Eight Farmers for Trespassing On June 1, eight farmers from Windwinn (Wundwin) Township, Mandalay Division, were arrested for cultivating lands that

were owned by the Department of Agriculture. However, the farmers claimed that they were ancestral lands that belonged to them. On June 1, Officer of the Department of Agriculture, Htay Linn, filed a lawsuit against them under Section 447 of the Penal Code for trespassing and under Section 114 of the Penal Code for being abettors when the offence was committed at the Windwinn Myoma Police Station. (2 June 2017 – DVB/Burmese) Two Ta’ang Men Arrested by Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS)/Shan State Army (SSA-South) On June 22, two Ta’ang men from Nar Site Village, Lwe Pyinn Village Tract in Namtu Township were arrested by the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS)/Shan State Army (SSA – South). Mine Aik San and Mine Nyi Aye were beaten and taken by RCSS. Mine Nyi Aye was released the following day but Min Aik San is still in detention. On June 26, the Ta’ang National Party released a statement condemning the arrests. The statement also expressed concerns about 14 other local Ta’ang residents who were arrested and are currently being detained by the RCSS/SSA. (26 June 2017 – RFA/Burmese)

4 JUNE 2017

▪ CHARGES

Students from Pathein University Now Face Trial at District Level On June 14, seven students from Pathein University, Irrawaddy Division, faced charges for defamation at the Pathein District Court, under Section 500 of the Penal Code, for defamation, after staging a satirical drama critical of clashes between the Military and armed ethnic groups (EAGs) at their university on January 9. The seven students had previously been acquitted of the charges when they were brought before the Pathein Township Court on May 12 but, upon an appeal made by Lieutenant Colonel Aung Myo Khaing, the case has now been heard again. The students believe that the Military is eager to send them to prison for their actions. Two other students who were not acquitted of the charges on May 12 will soon face trial, which is scheduled for June 28. AAPP will report on the outcome of the trial as and when we receive the information. (14 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (14 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) Three Journalists Charged Under Section 66(d) over Error in Facebook Report

MGY Journal Editor Tin Shwe, MGY Journal Reporter Phoo Pwint Nay Chi, and Democracy Today Reporter Zar Zar San were charged with defamation under Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law. Administrator of Myin Kin Village, Magway Township, Htay Lwin, filed the lawsuit with the Magwe Township 2 Police Station. Tin Shwe released a post from his personal Facebook account, saying that some brick plants continued operations, despite a general ban on brick production by the Magwe authorities. He wrongly reported however that the issue took place in Myin Kin Village, rather than Thin Baw Seit Village, which is why he was subsequently charged. Zar Zar San commented on the post, calling the violation unacceptable. According to the police

report, the three journalists had turned up at the illegal brick production site, had taken photographs, and threatened to report on the issue. The Committee to Protect Journalists has called on authorities to drop all charges against the three. On June 22, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Myanmar Journalist Association (MJA) jointly condemned the charges against the three journalists. In addition, they are calling for all charges of criminal defamation against journalists in Burma to be dropped immediately. (15 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (15 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (15 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese) (16 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (16 June, 2017 - DVB) (16 June, 2017 - Irrawaddy) (18 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (18 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) (19 June, 2017 - CPJ) (22 June 2017 - International Federation of Journalists)

Two Men Charged for Leading Commemoration of Renewed Kachin Conflict in Hpakant Township On June 19, Lamawng La Tawng and Taing Sau Bawm were charged under Section 19 of the Peaceful Assembly and Peaceful Procession Act by the Hpakant Township Court for leading a commemoration of the renewed Kachin conflict on June 9. Permission to hold the event at the Kachin Baptist Church had been granted to the organizers and nearly 500 residents attended the prayers. However, in court, the accused were told they had failed to act in accordance with public event procedures. The two men were released on bail set at 1 million kyat each. Their next court hearing is on July 3. (19 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (20 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese)

Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists, in Namhsan Township On June 26, six people, including three journalists, were arrested by Military Forces near Myothit village in Namhsan

5 JUNE 2017

Township, Shan State. The group, travelling by two vehicles, was arrested during their return from a drug destroying ceremony conducted by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), in commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse And Illicit Trafficking. The three journalists have been identified as Aye Naing and Pyae Phone, both from the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB), and Thein Zaw (a.k.a. Lawi Weng), from The Irrawaddy. According to Major, Thet Naing Oo, of Infantry Unit 503, the six individuals have been charged under Section 17/1 of the Unlawful Association Act and are being detained in Hsipaw Prison. The names of the three civilian drivers have not been revealed yet. The group was arrested on alleged affiliations with the TNLA, an ethnic armed group that is currently engaged in conflict with the military and is classified as an “illegal organization”. The six individuals are set to appear before a judge on July 11. On June 27, 25 Burmese news outlets, journalist organizations and journalist networks sent a joint open letter to the county’s leaders calling for the immediate release of the three journalists detained by the military before charges are brought against them. The letter stressed the importance of citizens being able to receive information about ethnic groups during his period of conflict in the country. In addition, it also expressed concern about the conditions under which the journalists were arrested and detained, which were unknown for three days. On June 27, the Committee to Protect Journalists released a statement calling for the immediate release of the three journalists. On June 28, the three reporters and three drivers were transferred from Lashio Township Police Station to Hsipaw Township Police Station. Captain Thet Naing Oo filed a lawsuit against them under Section 17/1 at the Hsipaw Police Station and sent them to the Hsipaw Prison. On June 29, human rights lawyer Robert San Aung raised concerns with media about how the individuals were

held for more than 24 hours without being remanded by a magistrate, against the statute of Section 376 of the Constitution. On June 29, Reporters Without Borders called for release of the journalists and for authorities to drop charges against them. AAPP is currently trying to determine the identity of the three civilian individuals. (26 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (26 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (26 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (26 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (26 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (26 June 2017 - BBC/Burmese) (26 June 2017 - Democratic Voice of Burma) (26 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (27 June 2017 - Myanmar Times) (26 June 2017 - Reuters) (26 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (27 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - BBC/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - BNI/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (27 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (27 June 2017 - Committee to Protect Journalists) (28 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - BBC/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (28 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmar) (28 June 2017 - Democratic Voice of Burma)(28 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)(28 June 2017 - Washington Post)(28 June 2017 - Voice of America)(28 June 2017 - Radio Free Asia) (29 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese) (29 June 2017 - Myanmar Times/Burmese) (29 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) (29 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (29 June 2017 - Democratic Voice of Burma)(29 June 2017 - Reporters Without Borders)(30 June 2017 - The New York Times)

6 JUNE 2017

▪ DETENTIONS

Voice Daily Editor Remains Detained Editor of The Voice Daily, Kyaw Min Swe, who was arrested on June 2 along with Kyaw Zaw Naing on defamation charges under Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law over a satirical article questioning the Burmese peace process, was denied bail a second time during a court hearing on June 16. Reporters Without Borders urged the release of Kyaw Min Swe in an article named ‘Burma’s courts must not help military to persecute journalists’. On June 23, Kyaw Min Swe was denied bail for a third time by the Bahan Township Court without any reasons given. Lieutenant Colonel Lin Tun has submitted a separate and direct complaint to the Bahan Township Court, which may lead to new charges against the two defendants. On June 30, the judge at the Bahan Township Court denied Kyaw Min Swe‘s fourth bail request due to lack of documentation and because not all witnesses had testified yet. The plaintiff Lieutenant Colonel Lin Tun did not appear at the trial and most journalists were prohibited access to the hearing. AAPP will report on the outcome of Kyaw Min Swe’s next trial, which will take place on July 7, as well as on any further charges against the pair. (2 June 2017 - Irrawaddy) (2 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (2 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (2 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (2 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - Eleven Myanmar) (4 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmar) (8 June 2017 - DVB) (8 June 2017 - Irrawaddy) (8 June 2017 - RFA) (8 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (8 June 2017 - BBC/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese)(8 June 2017 -

Irrawaddy/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese)(16 June, 2017 - DVB) (16 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmar/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmr/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Myanmar Times/Burmese) (21 June 2017 - Reporters Without Borders) (23 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (23 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (23 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (24 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese)(27 June 2017 - Myanmar Times)(27 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)(30 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)(30 June 2017 - Radio Free Asia) (30 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (30 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (30 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese)

7 JUNE 2017

▪ TRIALS

66(d) Charge Over Live-Stream Play ‘We Want No War’ on Facebook On June 4, Tun Tun Oo, a leader of the Human Rights Activists Association in Pathein, Irrawaddy Division, was arrested under charges of Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law. He was charged for live-streaming a play on Facebook, which was critical of military clashes with ethnic armed groups. He has been released on bail, which was posted at 5 million kyat. The play, titled ‘We Want No War’, was staged by high school students and undergraduates of Pathein University during a peace discussion in Pathein on January 9. Tun Tun Oo was initially charged by the Burma Army South Western Command with Section 34(d) of the Electronic Transactions Law, but legal advice from township law officials made them change the charges. Tun Tun Oo was brought to trial on June 5. Tun Tun Oo replied that he live streamed the play for his friends to see, because his son was in it. The two students who organized the play, Aung Khant Zaw and Myant Thu Htet, are still on trial. The seven others have been acquitted. (4 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (5 June 2017 - Irrawaddy) (5 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) (5 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (6 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (6 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese)

Students from Pathein University Now Face Trial at District Level On June 14, seven students from Irrawaddy

Division faced charges for defamation at the

Pathein District Court, under Section 500 of the

Penal Code, for defamation, after staging a

satirical drama critical of clashes between the

Military and armed ethnic groups (EAGs) at the

Pathein Hotel on January 9. The seven students

had previously been acquitted of the charges

when they were brought before the Pathein

Township Court on May 12 but, upon an appeal

made by Lieutenant Colonel Aung Myo Khaing,

the case has now been heard again. The

students believe that the Military is eager to

send them to prison for their actions. Two other

students who were not acquitted of the charges

on May 12 will soon face trial, which is

scheduled for June 28. AAPP will report on the

outcome of the trial as and when we receive the

information.

(14 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)

8 JUNE 2017

▪ SENTENCES

Student from ABFSU Sentenced to Two Months Imprisonment On June 27, Hnin Aung from the All Burma Federation Student Unions (ABFSU), was sentenced to one-month imprisonment under Section 18 of the Peaceful Assembly and Peaceful Procession Act and another month imprisonment under Section 228 of the Penal Code for the intentional insult or interruption to a public servant sitting in a judicial proceeding by the Sintgaing Township Court, Mandalay Division. He was charged for staging a protest in front of the Sintgaing General Administration Department regarding labor issues and for contempt of the court. He received the second sentence for not paying a fine that accompanied the second charge. On May 9, he was previously sentenced to four months imprisonment for protesting Burma’s education system in front of the Department of Higher Education and was due to be released from Mandalay’s Obo Prison under presidential amnesty on May 24. However, he has not released from Obo Prison due to his second conviction as he was facing trial for charges under Section 18 and Section 228. (27 June 2017 – The Voice/Burmese) (27 June 2017 – Eleven/Burmese)

Three Men Charged in Myitkyina Township for Leading Commemoration of Renewed Kachin Conflict On June 13, the Myitkyina Township Court in Kachin State charged three men under Section 19 of the Peaceful Assembly and Peaceful Procession Act. The men leading the ceremony, commemorating the six-year anniversary of the renewed Kachin conflict, which was attended by more than 7000 residents and internally displaced persons, chose to pay a fine of 30000 kyat (about USD$22) each, rather than spend 15 days in prison. Allegations by police included using slogans not pre-approved by authorities,

including one in particular calling for an end to military offenses in Kachin State.

(13 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (14 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (15 June 2017 - BNI/Burmese)

9 JUNE 2017

▪ CONDITIONS OF

IMPRISONMENT

Seven Inmates in Obo Prison Pass National Matriculation Exam On June 17, results of the matriculation exam were published and showed that seven out of eleven inmates from Obo Prison who had taken the exam had passed. This past year, Obo prison in Mandalay opened an examination center, permitting incarcerated students to study and take exams. According to prison officials, 38 students were studying in Obo prison this year from grade six to the matriculation level. Those in the matriculation class were given their own classroom. The students received help from other inmates who were teachers and doctors and were also taught by visiting teachers from local high schools. Students who have passed the matriculation exam and are now allowed to study at the university level have the right to continue their education via distance learning, according to Prisons Department’s Deputy Director, Min Tun Soe. It was also stated that the costs of distance education

for the students who passed the matriculation exam would be covered by the Prisons Department. (19 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (20 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (21 June 2017 - Myanmar Times)

Better Meals in Prison if New Budget Is Approved On June 20, Deputy Director of the Prisons Department, Min Tun Soe, said that the meal budget for those incarcerated in jails and prisons will be increased, although the amount has not been agreed upon yet. According to him, the daily cost to feed more than 70,000 prisoners in jails and prison camps is 42 million kyat (about USD$30,000). He said that the current budget is outdated, but whether the increase is warranted because of a growing number of prisoners or increased food prices is not clear. An analysis has been made, and Min Tun Soe promised better meals if the said budget is agreed upon. Critics, such as former prisoner Moe Hein, commented that rather than increasing the meal budget, prisons should save money by releasing prisoners who can be released, reducing the number of prisoners, and allocating the saved money to health and education. (21 June 2017 - Myanmar Times/Burmese) (22

June 2017 - Myanmar Times) (21 June 2017 -

Myanmar Times/Burmese)

10 JUNE 2017

11 JUNE 2017

▪ RELEASES

66(d) Charge Dropped against Voice Columnist but not Chief Editor On June 16, during a hearing at the Bahan Township Court, Rangoon Division, charges were dropped against The Voice Daily Columnist Kyaw Zaw Naing. On June 2, Kyaw Zwa Naing, A.K.A. Ko Ko Maung, and Kyaw Min Swe were arrested on defamation charges and detained in Bahan Township Police Station. On May 17, the pair faced a lawsuit under Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law, filed by Lieutenant Colonel Tun Tun Oo, over a satirical article questioning the Burmese peace process. Despite Kyaw Zaw Naing’s attempt to explain that the article was aimed at urging the end of the civil war, the military feared that the piece would give the armed forces a bad image and cause internal divisions, and therefore decided to sue both men. Following the arrest, the men’s legal adviser Khin Maung Myint warned the police that detaining the defendants for more than 24 hours without a warrant would be a violation of the police code of conduct. On June 3, the Bahan Township Court held an exceptional Saturday session, during which the judge issued the said warrant and stated that the pair would be held until their next hearing on June 8. On June 8, Judge Tharaphi denied their bail, on the grounds that necessary medical documents had not been delivered in time. The judge called for a resumed session on June 16. Legal experts called the denial unfair and inconsistent. According to the Criminal Code of Conduct, the right to bail can only be denied in the case where a charge carries the death penalty, provided the Court can always choose to release any accused individuals who is ill or under the age of 16 on bail. The court dropped charges against Kyaw Zaw Naing at a hearing on June 16, but not against Kyaw Min Swe. The latter was deemed ultimately responsible for the publication of the article. (2 June

2017 - Irrawaddy) (2 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (2 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (2 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (2 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (3 June 2017 - Eleven Myanmar) (4 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmar) (8 June 2017 - DVB) (8 June 2017 - Irrawaddy) (8 June 2017 - RFA) (8 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (8 June 2017 - BBC/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese)(8 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese)(16 June, 2017 - DVB) (16 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmar/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmr/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese)(16 June 2017 - Myanmar Times/Burmese) (21 June 2017 - Reporters Without Borders) (23 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (23 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (23 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (24 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese)(27 June 2017 - Myanmar Times)(27 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)(30 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)(30 June 2017 - Radio Free Asia) (30 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (30 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (30 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese)

48 out of 49 Kachin Detained by Army Released from Bhamo Prison On June 21, 48 out of 49 Kachin locals, who had been detained by the military since October 11, 2016, after being accused of attending a Kachin Independence Army (KIA) militia training, were released from Bhamo Prison in Kachin State. Before they were charged under Section 17/1 of the Unlawful Association Act, the charge was changed to Section 202 of the Penal Code for

12 JUNE 2017

intentionally omitting information about an offence. Even though they had been sentenced under Section 202 of the Penal Code, they were released due to time already served. They were arrested at the Lwe Jal military checkpoint for communicating with an “unlawful association” and “possessing weapons with the group”. Kachin State Democracy Party representatives say the youths were attending an agricultural training organized by community and religious groups. The individual who was not released was sentenced to seven years imprisonment, as it was discovered that he was a deserter from the Military. (22 June 2017 – Mizzima/Burmese) (23 June 2017 – VOA/Burmese)

13 JUNE 2017

▪ FORMER POLITICAL

PRISONERS

Student and Former Political Prisoner Allowed to Resume Studies On May 24, student Zaw Ye Htut was released with four other students under a presidential amnesty. They were arrested on April 26 for protesting in front of the Higher Education Department in Mandalay and sentenced to four-months in prison under Section 19 of the Peaceful Assembly and Peaceful Procession Act and Section 228 of the Penal Code for disrespecting the court. After his release, Zaw Ye Htut received a letter of dismissal from the Sagaing Education College for incitement to political chaos, therefore breaching Section 30 of the college entrance requirements prohibiting the participation in political activities. According to a statement released on June 4 by the National Network for Education Reform (NNER), excluding Zaw Ye Htut from college is a violation of the student’s right to freedom of expression. The NNER, together with the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABFSU), asked for the reinstatement of the student and called for the amendment of the rules suspending the right to education. On June 5, the Director General at the Department of Higher Education, Aung Aung Min, stated that Zaw Ye Htet must apply to rejoin the College to continue his studies. Zaw Ye Htut is planning to take to the streets if the Ministry of Education does not allow him to attend university. However, one June 14 he received confirmation that could in fact continue his studies following discussions between College authorities, High Education Department Authorities, including the Education Minister, and other Governmental authorities including NLD Spokesman Win Htein. He resumed his studies on June 17. (1 June 2017 - Eleven Myanmar) (2 June 2017 - Myanmar Times) (4 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (4 June 2017 - The

Voice/Burmese) (4 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (5 June 2017 - Myanmar Times) (5 June 2017 - DVB)(6 June 2017 - Myanmar Times) (15 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese)

Former Political Prisoners Recount Experience in Mandalay Prison Former political prisoners Pwin Phyu Latt and Zaw Zaw Latt recounted their experiences in prison, and testified about problems of overcrowding, the high rate of recidivism, and lack of re-entry programs. Pwin Phyu Latt and Zaw Zaw Latt were detained in July 2015, for photos they published of a peace activism trip they undertook in Kachin State. They were sentenced to two years in prison and charged under Section 13(1) of the 1947 Immigration Emergency Provision Act, and were also additionally sentenced to two years in April 2016 under Section 17/1 of the Unlawful Association Act. They were serving their four-year sentence in Mandalay’s Obo Prison when they were released under presidential amnesty, together with 250 other prisoners, at the start of the 21st Century Panglong Peace Conference talks on May 24. Zaw Zaw Latt estimated that during his time in prison, the prison held twice its capacity. He had trouble sleeping because of the lack of space. Pwin Phyu Latt had a similar account of incarceration in a female prison ward. Both witnessed high recidivism in fellow inmates. Recidivism for drug users, sex workers, and thieves alike was in part due to lack of educational opportunities in prison. Furthermore, they believe imprisonment is not an effective way to deal with addicts - it is expensive for the Government, and it does not teach them improved behavior. Instead, they suggest fines or treatment for addicts. According to the pair, many criminal offenders were forced back into a life of crime. (10 June, 2017 - Mizzima)

14 JUNE 2017

29th Win Tin Donation to Political Prisoners, Journalists and Their Relatives On June 12, the Hantharwady U Win Tin Foundation made its 29th donation to former and current political prisoners, journalists, and their families. During the ceremony, held every two or three months since 2012, the foundation gifted 200,000 kyat (about USD$145) to 11 former political prisoners and journalists, and 300,000 kyat (about USD$220) to a youth organization under the National League for Democracy (NLD). As a result of the continued campaign, the foundation has donated a total of 1.92 billion kyat (nearly USD$1.4 million) to this cause. (12 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese) (13 June,

2017 - Eleven Myanmar)

15 JUNE 2017

RESTRICTIONS ON CIVIL AND

POLITICAL RIGHTS Investigation Announced into Torture Video On May 31, the Office of the State Counselor announced an investigation on the viral video that depicted five soldiers and one militia personnel in civilian clothing interrogating and torturing six men. The official statement on Facebook stressed that appropriate measures will be taken against the perpetrators if abuses are discovered. The 17-minute video first appeared on social media on May 27. It shows soldiers kicking and beating the detainees while asking them questions, and accusing the detainees of being “Palaung fighters” - a presumed reference to the National Liberation Army (TNLA). According to the Irrawaddy, the TNLA commented that the incident occurred in 2015. When the investigation will take place or be completed is not clear yet. (28 May 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (31 May, 2017 - Irrawaddy) (1 June, 2017 - Fortify Rights)

Land Disputes Remain Unresolved in Rangoon Division On June 1, Secretary of the Review Committee on Confiscated Farmlands and Other Lands in Rangoon Division, Than Myint, said that cases of land disputes in Rangoon Division are not being resolved yet under the new government, when he met media at the office of the Yangon Government Division. He added that the Review Committee on Confiscated Farmlands has submitted 59 land disputes cases to the Central Review Committee on Confiscated Farmlands and Other Lands, of which none have been resolved. Although the Review Committee has given suggestions to the Central Review Committee to continue or close cases, the

Central Review Committee has not come to a decision yet on any case. (2 June 2017 – The Voice/Burmese) Monastic School Instructed to Shut Down On June 1, the Mya Tan Saung Monastic School in Myauk-U Township, in Arakan State, received a letter from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture, repealing its permission to operate. On June 2, Daw Win Aye from school’s council said that authorities from the Education Department, Township Peace and Development Council and Police Force came to the school and offered their help the school if necessary. In the school, ten teachers teach one hundred and eighty students from the primary level to grade nine. On April 10, Abbot Nanda Thara from Mya Tan Saung Monastery and Khine Ni Min were arrested in Arakan State’s Mrauk Oo Township for organizing a football match dubbed the ‘Arakan Army Cup’ among other events in Mya Tan Saung Monastery, commemorating the founding of the Arakan Army on April 10, 2009. (2 June 2017 – RFA/Burmese) Protester Condemns Land Grabs in Naypyidaw On June 3, Aye Thein, also known as Yan Naing, held a solo protest in Tatkone Township, Naypyidaw, to condemn land confiscation and demand the return of seized lands. Aye Thein also asked to meet Chairman of Naypyidaw Council. Dr. Myo Aung, to discuss 12 cases of land grabbing. He plans to stage a similar protest in Ottarathiri Township, Naypyidaw, as well as a press conference in Rangoon. (3 June 2017 - Eleven Myanmar)

16 JUNE 2017

Media Representatives Campaign for Press Freedom On June 6, over 100 media representatives gathered at the Orchid Hotel, Rangoon, in support of Kyaw Min Swe and Kyaw Zwa Naing. Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB) Representative Tha Lun Zaung Htet, organized the conference and founded the temporary Committee for the Protection of Journalists, counting 21 members. The Committee released a statement on Tuesday, demanding that statutes like 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law are terminated, all associated lawsuits dropped, and the civil society is included in this process. They also announced that a 10-day white armband campaign for press freedom which was aimed to be launched on June 8 with a march from Bahan Courthouse to the offices of Eleven Media Group and The Voice Daily. Later protests were held in front of Bahan Township Court and Yangon City Hall. (6 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (6 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese) (6 June 2017 - Eleven/Burmese) (6 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (6 June 2017 - Irrawaddy) (6 June 2017 - RFA) (7 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (7 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmar) (7 June 2017 - DVB) (8 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (8 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (8 June 2017 - Irrawaddy) (8 June 2017 - US News) (10 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (10 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (17 June 2017 - Eleven)

Farmers Demand Compensation for Their Damaged Lands On June 8, approximately 90 local farmers from Htigyaing Township, Sagaing Division, and Thabeikkyin Township, Mandalay Division staged a protest to receive compensation for their lands that were damaged by loose soil from the Takaung Nickel Factory. Protestor Tun Kyi said lands of the farmers were covered by loose soil every year. The loose soil from this factory has been covering 470 acres of lands since 2012. Protesters walked from Thabeikkyin Township, Mandalay Division, to Takaung

Nickel Factory in Htigyaing Township, Sagaing Division. (8 June 2017 – RFA/Burmese) Amendment to 66(d) Discussed by Assessment Commission of Legal Affairs and Special Issues The Assessment Commission of Legal Affairs and Special Issues discussed the revision of Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law, however the content of the discussions and what will happen next remains unclear. Member of Parliament for No. 5 Constituency, Sagaing Division Ye Htut, raised the question in parliament of whether there will be amendments or the complete abolition of Section 66(d), but the discussion was repeatedly blocked by fellow National League for Democracy (NLD) members. Most prominent amendments include decriminalization and the inclusion of bail. Bill Committee Chairperson Tun Tun Hein said he welcomed legislation to decriminalize the law. A Ministry of Information Official Myo Myint Maung said that with criminal penalties removed from the law, it would likely fall into disuse. The Attorney General’s office recently suggested that defendants in defamation cases be granted bail, which is rarely granted to journalists. The issue might soon be discussed by parliament, but commission member and ruling NLD spokesperson Win Htein said there is no urgent need to amend the section. (9 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (9 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (9 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) (9 June 2017 - Eleven/Burmese) (12 June 2017 - Myanmar Times) (12 June 2017 - Coconuts)

Board Film Festival does Not Approve Film on Youth in Arakan State On June 7, the board of the Human Rights Human Dignity International Film Festival released the line-up of over 60 films, but failed to approve screening of the film ‘Sittwe’. The Films and Video Censorship Board wrote to the event’s organizers,

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saying that the film was “Culturally and religiously inappropriate and should not be shown”. The film is an 18-minute documentary about young people affected by conflicts in Arakan State. The film festival started in 2013, and for the first three years, no films were banned. The first ban was in 2016, of the political film “Twilight Over Burma: My Life as a Shan Princess”. This year’s festival opened with “Burma Storybook”, featuring former political prisoners and poet Maung Aung Pwint. (7 June 2017 - Irrawaddy) (8 June 2017 - Frontier Myanmar) (9 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese)

Rakhine Farmers Demand Fair Compensation for Land On June 9, 27 farmers from Set Yoe Kya Ward, Sittwe Region, Arakan State, rejected a proposal for compensation of their lands totaling 160 acres, which were confiscated in 1992-1993 for the development of an industrial zone. The offer of 3 million kyat per acre (about USD$2194) from the local government was deemed inadequate by the farmers who are demanding more fair compensation or the return of their lands. (12 June 2017 - Burma News International/Burmese) (13 June 2017 - Burma News International)

CPJ and Pen Myanmar Raise Concerns About Section 66(d) With Ministry of Information and Lower House Bill Committee On June 8, representatives from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Pen Myanmar met with Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Myo Myint Maung, and Chairman of the Lower House Bill Committee, Tun Tun Hein, to demand reform of Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law. According to the CPJ, Tun Tun Hein stated that no proposals have been submitted to amend Section 66(d) but the Bill Committee will give priority when a proposal is submitted. (11 June 2017 - Eleven)

Media Banned from Attending Ceremony of Land Returns On June 11, a land returning ceremony was held at the Zwe Ka Bin Hall in Hpa An City in Kayin State. Even though governmental media outlets such as Myanmar Radio and Television, Global New Light of Myanmar and the Ministry of Information and Communication Media, were allowed access to the event in the hall, independent media outlets were prohibited entry by security forces. Local reporter Yar Hu, from Hpa An, Karen State, said members of independent media were not allowed to gather news in the hall. They were only able to take photos and conduct interviews outside the hall. The Vice-President and acting Chairman of the Central Review Committee on Confiscated Farm Lands and Other Lands Henry Van Thio was one attendee available for comment after the ceremony. Yar Hu added that independent media representatives mainly wanted to document that lands were being returned to local farmers. (11 June 2017 – DVB/Burmese) Police Interferes in a Solo Protest Against the Criminal Investigation Department Police forces in Naypyidaw stopped solo protester, Thinzar Maung Maung, from Bago Division who tried to stage a protest in front of the Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D) office in Nay Pyi Daw in protest of improper C.I.D. investigations. Though she had permission to stage the protest on the Shwe Nant Thar Ground in Ottarathiri Township, Naypyidaw, she attempted to stage the protest at the C.I.D office instead. Police Colonel, Zaw Khin Aung, from the Nay Pyi Daw Regional Police Force said that they will not take action against her. (13 June 2017 - 7 Day Daily/Burmese) Lower House Speaker Urges Government to Return Inactive Grabbed Lands to Original Owners

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Speaker of the House of Representative and MP for Tamwe Township, Rangoon, Win Myint, called on lawmakers in Parliament to follow through on their responsibility to ensure that lands grabbed across the country for government projects be returned to their original owners. The appeal was made amid questions raised in the House of Representatives by Lawmaker Thant Zin Htun regarding land grabbed in Dekkhinathiri Township, Naypyidaw for a mango plantation. The Speaker also urged lawmakers to improve coordination with the land confiscation review committee, largely made up of government authorities involved with land confiscation under previous governments, to ensure that fairness and justice is rendered to those whose lands were confiscated unfairly. In an earlier statement last week, Win Myint stated that of the 1,905 land seizure cases in the Yangon Region, none had been resolved further noting that only 337 cases had made it to the regional government and 59 had reached the central government. (7 June 2017 - Myanmar Times)(12 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy/Burmese)(13 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)

Farmers from Myaungmya Township Demand Return of Confiscated Lands At a press conference on June 14, farmers in Myaungmya Township, Irrawaddy Division demanded 249 acres of land be returned to their 32 original owners. The lands, used to grow cashews, were seized in 1996 by Military forces but mostly declared abandoned in 2016. Farmers had previously requested an explanation from divisional government authorities with regards to why their lands, which remain unused, may not be returned to them but have not been answered. Though more than 90,000 acres of seized lands in the Irrawaddy Division have been returned to their owners so far, a total of 200,000 acres were confiscated by the Military,

Government authorities and private companies when the country was under military rule. (14 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (14 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy/Burmese

Taunggyi Based Reporters Stage Protest On June 15, around ten Taunggyi based reporters from the Taunggyi Reporters Association staged a protest wearing white armbands and holding posters. The protesters demanded access to gather news in Shan State Parliament and that Section 66(d) of the Telecommunication Law be repealed. Though Myanmar Radio and Television, Sky Net and NRC are allowed to gather news in the Shan State Parliament, other independent media outlets are restricted. As a result, independent news reporters gather information from the live-streaming television outside Parliament. They face difficulties because the images and sound are sometimes not clear. Some parliaments in certain states and divisions allow reporters to gather news inside the buildings. (15 June 2017 – BBC/Burmese) (15 June 2017 – RFA/Burmese)

Mandalay Journalists Protest Against Section 66(D) On June 15, journalists in Mandalay issued a statement on pamphlets distributed to citizens of the city expressing their opposition toward Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law. The statement, which denounced the ongoing persecution of journalists in the country under Section 66(d), pointed out that Burma’s Constitution provides certain liberties regarding freedom of speech and freedom of expression. The journalists, who feel that Section 66(d) is being used as a tool to continue the suppression of media and would like to see the News Media Council be reestablished, are calling for MPs in the National Parliament to amendment of the law. (15 June 2017 - Myanmar Times)

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Kyaukphyu Farmers Demand Adequate Compensation for Lands On June 19, farmers from four village tracts in Kyaukphyu Township demanded that they be adequately compensated for lands being seized for the construction of a special economic zone (SEZ). The proposed project is the initiative of a Chinese state-owned company that plans to create an industrial zone on nearly 4300 acres of land, where 35 villages are currently located. The farmers would like to be compensated at a rate of up to 90 million kyat per acre for their fertile lands that provide them with important income. Farmers put forward their demands following a meeting between Kyaukphyu SEZ Committee Chairman Dr. Soe Win and 63 farmers from four nearby villages. Civil society organizations, lawmakers and reporters were barred from the meeting resulting in criticism from Arakan National Party’s Region MP, Phoe San. The Social Development Association for Regional Farmers has asked that job opportunities be created for locals affected by the project and that villagers be properly resettled, should their lands be required for the project. (19 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy) (21 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (22 June 2017 - The Voice/Burmese) (24 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) Protest March in Monywa Township Calls for Amendment of 66(d) On June 18, more than 100 protesters, consisting of residents, journalists and civil society organization members, participated in a protest march in Monywa Township, Sagaing Division, calling for the amendment of Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law. Protesters chanted slogans criticizing the law for its role in continuing the oppression of media in the country and restricting people's freedom of speech and expression. (19 June 2017 - Eleven) (18 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese)

Magwe Students Demand That Imprisoned Students not be Expelled Post Detention & More On June 17, the Magwe University of Medicine and Technology student union held a press conference where a representative spoke to media about students’ demands for reform of the current rules that govern higher education. Among other issues raised, the student representative, Ko Myo Khant, demanded that imprisoned students not be expelled post incarceration for political dissent. He explained how students are doubly punished by laws that restrict speech and expression as well as by how political incarcerations negatively affect students’ lives. Students are often expelled from school after political dissent charges. (17 June 2017 - Myanmar Times)

Farmers Compensated for Seized Magwe Lands On June 16, four farmers were financially compensated for lands they held in their names that had been confiscated under the previous Government. Buildings had been constructed on the lands since they had been confiscated. In the Magwe Region, more than 400,000 acres of land have been confiscated over the past decades by the military, various government departments and companies. (20 June 2017 - Myanmar Times)

22 Civil Society Organizations Demand Repeal of Section 66(d) and Review the Telecommunications Law On June 24, 22 civil society organizations, including Myanmar Journalists Association (MJA), Myanmar Journalist Network (MJN), Myanmar Journalist Union (MJU), Burma Net International (BNI), and PEN Myanmar, released a joint statement urging the Government and Parliament to “to repeal Section 66 (d) of the Telecommunication Law”, “To review and amend the other sections of the Telecommunications Law that have affected freedom of speech and expression and democracy and human right

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standards” and “to properly discuss the steps of the amendments with citizens”. The organizations released the joint statement because they oppose the fact that Section 66(d) is a criminalized charge and because the number of people arrested under the law is increasing under the current government. They maintain that the law negatively affects people’s human rights. (24 June 2017 – Eleven/Burmese)(25 June 2017 – DVB/Burmese)(25 June 2017 – RFA/Burmese)

Lawsuit Filed Against Four Farmers in Salingyi Township Police from the Salingyi Township police station have filed charges under Section 19 of the Peaceful Assembly and Peaceful Procession Act against local farmers Yi Win, Khin Nyein, Sandar and Mar Cho, who staged a protest against the Letpadaung Copper Mine. The four were among dozens of protesters who demonstrated on Pathein-Monywa Road in front of the Wanbao Co. on June 26, criticizing the company’s failed implementation of recommendations made in 2013 by an investigative commission. Among the recommendations were increased compensation for confiscated lands, creation of job opportunities, and implementation of environmental and social management system for the mine. Villagers have accused the business, jointly operated by Wanbao Co., a Chinese company, and the military owned Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Company (UMEHL), of causing air pollution, environmental degradation and failing to reclaim 1900 acres of land to replace confiscated farmlands. AAPP will report on any developments regarding the charges they face when it receives the information. (29 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)

Signature Campaign in Opposition to 66(d) Cancelled due to Restrictions from Local Authorities in Rangoon On June 22, local Government officials and police refused permission to the Protection

Committee for Myanmar Journalists (PCMJ) to stage a signature campaign protest on June 23 in front of the Rangoon Division Military Headquarters, to gather support from residents against the controversial Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law. The PCMJ has stated that the decision reveals a violation of peoples’ right to protest. (23 June 2017 - Mizzima) (23 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (23 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese)

61 Burmese and International Human Right Organizations Release Joint Statement Over Concerns About Section 66(d) On June 29, AAPP along with 60 other Burmese and international human rights organizations released a joint statement calling for a total repeal or at least amendment of Section 66(d), so that defamation is not considered a criminal offense and that recognizable criminal acts be defined in line with international human rights laws to prevent the criminalization of peaceful expression. The joint statement has been released amid concerns that the criminal defamation provision of Section 66(d) will be retained during the current Government review of the Telecommunications Law. (29 June 2017 - ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights)(29 June 2017 - Human Rights Watch) (29 June 2017 - Progressive Voice) (29 June 2017 - DVB/Burmese) (30 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese

Hundreds Protest in Yangon Against Arrests of Journalists and Section 66(d) On June 30, several hundred members of Burmese press organizations as well as civil society and rights groups protested in front of the Rangoon City Hall, calling for the release of detained journalists under Section 17/1 of the Unlawful Associations Act and the repeal of Section 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law. The protests were staged in light of four recent arrests of journalists in the country in June. The

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protest also included the collection of signatures demanding that Section 66(d) be repealed. (30 June 2017 - The Irrawaddy)

22 JUNE 2017

LEGISLATION AND POLICY

DEVELOPMENTS Kachin MPs Agree to Reclaim Land On May 31, the Government in Kachin State agreed upon the proposal of Member of Parliament (MP), Zaw Thin, to reclaim vacant land from individuals and firms and hand it over to their original farmers. The Kachin Government has reportedly given back over 1.3 million acres to individuals and companies but according to State Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation, Mya Thein, only 140,000 acres have been farmed. (1 June 2017 - Eleven Myanmar) Ministry of Home Affairs Remains Reluctant to Define the Term “Political Prisoner” On June 21, Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, General Aung Soe, stated that the Ministry has no plan to define the term “political prisoner” nor what constitutes a “political offence”, in response to a question asked by Member of Parliament (MP) Kyaw Kyaw, from Arakan State. General Aung Soe further noted that despite discussions held by the Ministry with MPs, representatives of civil society organization and political parties, it has failed to agree upon what constitutes a prisoner of conscience in lawmaking terms. Despite the fact that several former political prisoners from the National League for Democracy (NLD) Party are now in parliament, the Government remains reluctant to provide a definition, leaving political activists vulnerable to arrest on criminal charges. (21 June 2017 - RFA/Burmese) (21 June 2017 - Mizzima/Burmese) (21 June 2017 - Irrawaddy/Burmese) (22 June 2017 - DVB)

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REFERENCES May 31 Investigation Announced into Torture Video - Irrawaddy June 1 Kachin MPs Agree to Reclaim Land - Myanmar Times Student to Protest College Expulsion - Eleven Myanmar Investigation Announced into Torture Video - Fortify Rights June 2 Student to Protest College Expulsion - Myanmar Times Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(s) Charge - Irrawaddy Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(s) Charge - RFA Monastic School Instructed to Shut down - Radio Free Asia/Burmese Land Disputes Remain Unresolved in Rangoon Division - The Voice/Burmese Lawsuit Filed Against Eight Farmers for Trespassing - Democratic Voice of Burma/Burmese June 3 Protester Condemns Land Grabs in Naypyidaw - Eleven Myanmar

Rangoon Government Allegedly Reneges on Land Agreement - Irrawaddy Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(s) Charge - Eleven Myanmar June 4 Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(s) Charge - Frontier Myanmar June 5 Student to Protest College Expulsion - Myanmar Times Student to Protest College Expulsion - DVB 66(d) Charge Over Live-Stream Play ‘We Want No War’ on Facebook - Irrawaddy June 6 Student to Protest College Expulsion - Myanmar Times Media Representatives Campaign for Press Freedom - Irrawaddy Media Representatives Campaign for Press Freedom - Radio Free Asia June 7 Media Representatives Campaign for Press Freedom - Frontier Myanmar

Media Representatives Campaign for Press Freedom - DVB Board Film Festival does Not Approve Film on Youth in Arakan State - Irrawaddy Rangoon Government Allegedly Reneges on Land Agreement - Frontier Myanmar June 8 Board Film Festival does Not Approve Film on Youth in Arakan State - Frontier Myanmar Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(s) Charge - DVB Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(s) Charge - Irrawaddy Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(s) Charge - RFA Media Representatives Campaign for Press Freedom - Irrawaddy Media Representatives Campaign for Press Freedom - US News Farmers Demand Compensation for Their Damaged Lands - Radio Free Asia 10 June Former Political Prisoners Recount Experience in Mandalay Prison - Mizzima

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11 June CPJ and Pen Myanmar Raise Concerns About Section 66(d) With Ministry of Information and Lower House Bill Committee - Eleven Media Banned From Attending Ceremony of Land Returns - Democratic Voice of Burma/Burmese 12 June Amendment 66(d) Discussed by Assessment of Legal Affairs and Special Issues Commission - Myanmar Times Amendment 66(d) Discussed by Assessment of Legal Affairs and Special Issues Commission - Coconuts Township - Frontier Myanmar 13 June 29th Win Tin Donation to Political Prisoners, Journalists and Their Relatives - Eleven Myanmar Rakhine Farmers Demand Fair Compensation For Land - Burma News International/Burmese Police Interferes in a Solo Protest Against the Criminal Investigation Department - 7Day Daily/Burmese Lower House Speaker Urges Government to Return Inactive Grabbed Lands to Original Owners - The Irrawaddy 14 June

Three Men Arrested in Myitkyina Township For Leading Commemoration of Renewed Kachin Conflict - The Irrawaddy Farmers from Myaungmya Township Demand Return of Confiscated Lands - The Irrawaddy Farmers from Myaungmya Township Demand Return of Confiscated Lands - The Irrawaddy/Burmese Students From Pathein University Now Face Trial at District Level - Irrawaddy/Burmese 15 June Students From Pathein University Now Face Trial at District Level - The Irrawaddy Mandalay Journalists Protest Against Section 66(D) - Myanmar Times Taunggyi Based Reporters Staged Protest - Radio Free Asia/Burmese Taunggyi Based Reporters Staged Protest - British Broadcasting Corporation/Burmese 16 June Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(d) Charge - DVB Three Journalists Face 66(d) Charges over Error in Facebook Report - DVB Three Journalists Face 66(d) Charges over Error in Facebook Report - Irrawaddy Arrest Warrant for Farmers and Activists

After Revoked Bail - Eleven Myanmar 17 June Magwe Students Demand That Imprisoned Students not be Expelled Post Detention & More - Myanmar Times 19 June Kyaukphyu Farmers Demand Adequate Compensation for Lands - The Irrawaddy Protest March In Monywa Township Calls for Amendment of 66(d) - Eleven Two Men Charged for Leading Commemoration of Renewed Kachin Conflict in Hpakant Township - The Irrawaddy Seven Inmates in Obo Prison Pass National Matriculation Exam - The Irrawaddy 18 June Protest March in Monywa Township Calls for Amendment of 66(d) - RFA/Burmese

20 June Seven Inmates in Obo Prison Pass National Matriculation Exam - The Irrawaddy Farmers Compensated for Seized Magwe Lands - Myanmar Times/Burmese 21 June

25 JUNE 2017

Seven Inmates in Obo Prison Pass National Matriculation Exam - Myanmar Times Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(d) Charge - Reporters Without Borders Better Meals In Prison If New Budget Is Approved- Myanmar Times/Burmese Kyaukphyu Farmers Demand Adequate Compensation for Lands - Irrawaddy/Burmese Ministry of Home Affairs Remains Reluctant to Define the Term “Political Prisoner” - RFA/Burmese Ministry of Home Affairs Remains Reluctant to Define the Term “Political Prisoner” - Mizzima/Burmese Ministry of Home Affairs Remains Reluctant to Define the Term “Political Prisoner” - Irrawaddy/Burmese

22 June Better Meals In Prison If New Budget Is Approved - Myanmar Times Ministry of Home Affairs Remains Reluctant to Define the Term “Political Prisoner” - DVB Three Journalists Face 66(d) Charges over Error in Facebook Report - International Federation of Journalists - Kyaukphyu Farmers Demand Adequate Compensation for Lands - The Voice/Burmese

22 Civil Society Organizations Demand Repeal of Section 66(d) and Review the Telecommunications Law - Eleven/Burmese 22 Civil Society Organizations Demand Repeal of Section 66(d) and Review the Telecommunications Law- Democratic Voice of Burma/Burmese 22 Civil Society Organizations Demand Repeal of Section 66(d) and Review the Telecommunications Law - Radio Free Asia/Burmese 48 out of 49 Kachin Detained by Army Released from Bhamo Prison - Democratic Voice of Burma/Burmese 23 June Signature Campaign In Opposition to 66(d) Cancelled due to Restrictions from Local Authorities in Rangoon - Mizzima Signature Campaign in Opposition to 66(d) Cancelled due to Restrictions from Local Authorities in Rangoon - Mizzima/Burmese Signature Campaign in Opposition to 66(d) Cancelled due to Restrictions from Local Authorities in Rangoon - Irrawaddy/Burmese- Mizzima/Burmese 48 out of 49 Kachin Detained by Army Released from Bhamo

Prison - Voice of America/Burmese

June 24 Kyaukphyu Farmers Demand Adequate Compensation for Lands - Mizzima/Burmese 26 June Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - DVB/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - RFA/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - VOA/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Irrawddy/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Mizzima/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - BBC/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Democratic Voice of Burma Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - The Irrawaddy Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan

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Township - Myanmar Times Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Reuters Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - The Irrawaddy Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - The Irrawaddy Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested and Taken into Custody Over 66(d) Charge - The Irrawaddy 27 June Student from ABFSU Sentenced to Two Months Imprisonment - VOA/Burmese Student from ABFSU Sentenced to Two Months Imprisonment - The Voice/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Day Daily/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - VOA/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - VOA/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Irrawaddy/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged,

Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - BBC/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - DVB/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Irrawaddy/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - RFA/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Irrawaddy/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Mizzima/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - BNI/BurmeseSix Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Mizzima/Burmese 28 June Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Frontier Myanmar Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Democratic Voice of Burma Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three

Journalists in Namhsan Township - The Irrawaddy Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Washington Post Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Voice of America Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Radio Free Asia 13 Arrested, 4 Released and 1 Killed After Interrogation in Shane State - Radio Free Asia Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - 7 Day Daily/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - BBC/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - RFA/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - VOA/Burmese (28 June 2017 - VOA/Burmese) Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Irrawaddy/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan

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Township - Irrawaddy/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Irrawaddy/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Mizzima/Burmese 29 June Lawsuit Filed Against four farmers in Salingyi Township - The Irrawaddy 61 Burmese and International Human Right Organizations Release Joint Statement Over Concerns About Section 66(d) - ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - The Voice/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Myanmar Times/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - 7 Day Daily/Burmese Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - VOA/Burmese 61 Burmese and International Human Right Organizations Release

Joint Statement Over Concerns About Section 66(d) - Human Rights Watch 61 Burmese and International Human Right Organizations Release Joint Statement Over Concerns About Section 66(d) - DVB/Burmese 61 Burmese and International Human Right Organizations Release Joint Statement Over Concerns About Section 66(d) - Progressive Voice

Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists in Namhsan Township - Democratic Voice of Burma 30 June Hundreds Protest in Yangon Against Arrests Of Journalists and Section 66(d) - The Irrawaddy Six Arrested and Charged, Including Three Journalists, in Namhsan Township - The New York Times Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested Over 66(d) Charges - Radio Free Asia Voice Editor and Satirist Arrested Over 66(d) Charges - The Irrwaddy 66(d) Charge Dropped against Voice Columnist but not Chief Editor - DVB/Burmese 66(d) Charge Dropped against Voice Columnist but not Chief Editor - Irrawaddy/Burmese 66(d) Charge Dropped against Voice Columnist

but not Chief Editor - Mizzima/Burmese 61 Burmese and International Human Right Organizations Release Joint Statement Over Concerns About Section 66(d) - VOA/Burmese

For more Information contact: Ko Tate Naing Secretary +95(0) 94280 23828 Ko Bo Kyi Joint Secretary +66(0) 81 9628 713