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Myanmar
Demand the Release of Photojournalist Sai Zaw Thaike

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Journalism is an extremely dangerous profession in Myanmar. More than 200 journalists have been imprisoned by the military since they took power in 2021. At least seven have reportedly been killed. Media outlets have been banned and forced into exile.

Despite this danger, when Cyclone Mocha slammed into Myanmar in May 2023, photojournalist Sai Zaw Thaike travelled undercover to Rakhine State, determined to report on the devastation.

He embedded himself with a relief team. But after a week there, Sai Zaw was arrested. He was interrogated, beaten and in September 2023, sentenced by a military tribunal to 20 years in prison with hard labour. His trial lasted just one day. Sai Zaw should be able to report freely. He should also be at home, spending time with his family and doing the things he loves, like playing football, watching Manchester United and seeing friends. He should be caring for his cats who he adores.

Instead, he is locked up. He has endured beatings by prison staff and periods of solitary confinement.

Demand that Myanmar’s military immediately release Sai Zaw Thaike.

Sign the petition and demand the immediate release of photojournalist Sai Zaw Thaike.

Read the petition letter below

OPEN LETTER

To the Myanmar military junta:

I am writing to demand that you immediately release photojournalist Sai Zaw Thaike.

Sai Zaw has been persecuted for his work reporting on the devastation caused by Cyclone Mocha. In 2023, he was arrested and sentenced by a military tribunal to 20 years in prison. He has endured beatings by prison staff and periods of solitary confinement. Sai Zaw must be freed now.

Yours sincerely,

Demand the Release Photojournalist Sai Zaw Thaike!

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