The European Union (EU) office in Myanmar expressed sorrow over the passing of Dr. Zaw Myint Maung, Vice Chairman of the National League for Democracy (NLD) and former Chief Minister of Mandalay Region, recognizing him as a human rights advocate who played a significant role in guiding Myanmar’s democratic transition after spending 19 years of his life in prison.
The statement highlighted that Dr. Zaw Min Maung had been arrested again under fallacious political charges following the military coup and had suffered from severe illness without adequate medical care for many years. His prison conditions were described as extremely inhumane and degrading.
The EU criticized the military junta’s decision to grant him a pardon only a few hours before his death “was not a gesture of genuine clemency.” The EU embassy expressed condolences to Dr. Zaw Myint Maung’s family and friends.
The EU reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Myanmar, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all those unjustly detained and for a return to the path of democracy, which is essential for peace and stability in the region.
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