Daw Nyo Aye, chairperson of the Rakhine Women Network (RWN), was slapped with sedition charges under Article 505 after her arrest by the police at her residence in Mingan ward, Sittwe Township on August 15th.
Following her interrogation by the police on August 13th in relation to the 56th annual commemoration of the Rice Crisis organized by the Rakhine State Student Union, Daw Nyo Aye was held in custody at the police station, leading to the sedition charges being filed, one of her family members told DMG.
"They came around noon and took her with them, saying they wanted to ask about the Rice Crisis event. She has now in custody for a week and summoned for trial next Tuesday”, the family member said.
Back in 1967, under the regime of military dictator Ne Win, the people of Sittwe took a stand against the rice shortage crisis in Rakhine State, tragically resulting in numerous lives lost due to the army ‘s brutal shooting of the protestors..
In honour of the victims, the 56th Rice Crisis commemoration was held on August 13th, led by the Rakhine State Student Union and attended by Daw Nyo Aye.
The arrest and prosecution of Daw Nyo Aye, merely for participating in an event, has drawn strong condemnation from human rights activists. U Myat Tun, director of the Rakhine State Human Rights Defender's Association commented,
"Arresting and initiating legal proceedings against an individual for engaging in an action that aligns with nationalism, violates Article 19 of the Human Rights Declaration.
Daw Nyo Aye is a dedicated advocate for women's rights in Rakhine State and is actively involved in charitable initiatives. Women's rights activists in Rakhine are urging for leniency in her punishment.
Daw Saw Pu Sein, chairperson of the Rakhine Women’s Federation told DMG,” "We've learned about her arrest related to the Rice Crisis anniversary event. She has contributed significantly to women's affairs. Considering her age and fragile health, we hope she won't face harsh consequences.” Relatives have confirmed that Daw Nyo Aye has been moved to Sittwe Prison and is currently detained there.
