Myanmar’s detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been moved from prison to house arrest, according to an announcement made by state television on Thursday night.
The military information office confirmed the development via a press statement, which included a photo of the leader.
In the released image, the 80-year-old leader is seen wearing a traditional white blouse and skirt while seated on a wooden bench. She is pictured facing two unidentified men, one in a police uniform and the other in a separate official uniform.
While the photo was broadcast nationally, the exact time and location of the meeting remain unverified.
The former leader has been in detention since February 1, 2021, when the military seized power from her elected government.
Until this latest release, she had not been seen in public for years, with the last official photograph dating back to a court appearance in May 2021.
Amnesty and sentence reduction
The transfer coincided with a broader prisoner amnesty marking the Full Moon day of Kason, a significant Buddhist holiday celebrating Buddha’s birth and enlightenment.
Authorities announced that 1,519 prisoners, including 11 foreigners, would have their sentences reduced by one-sixth.
Originally sentenced to 33 years on various charges, this latest amnesty follows a previous reduction. Following the new calculations, her remaining sentence now stands at approximately 13 years.
The military administration stated the move from the main prison in Naypyitaw to a specific residence was an act of humanitarian concern and to celebrate the religious occasion.
The shift in detention conditions follows the recent inauguration of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing as president on April 10.
In his first speech, he pledged to grant amnesties to promote social reconciliation and peace, though critics view these actions as an attempt to improve the administration’s international standing.
International response and health concerns
The United Nations has noted the transfer, with Secretary-General António Guterres describing the move as a meaningful step toward creating conditions for a credible political process.
Through a spokesperson, the UN chief reiterated his call for the immediate release of all political prisoners and a cessation of violence to allow for inclusive dialogue.
Concerns regarding the health of the Nobel Peace Prize winner have persisted throughout her detention. Reports in 2024 and 2025 suggested she suffered from low blood pressure and heart-related issues, though these remained unconfirmed.
Her legal team has faced significant restrictions, only being allowed in-person meetings after late 2022.
The 2021 military takeover led to widespread civil unrest and a protracted conflict across the country. According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, over 22,000 people have been detained for political reasons since the coup.
The daughter of independence hero Aung San, the former leader previously spent nearly 15 years under house arrest between 1989 and 2010.
