NLD Statement 53 in English

[nldburma@xxxxxxxxxxx]

National League for Democracy
NO (97/B), West Shwegondine Road
Bahan, Rangoon

Statement No: 53 (3/99)

1.	Living conditions for political prisoners in Thayet prison in Magwe 
Division are outrageous.

2.	Information given to us is that the total number of political 
prisoners is 74 and even though the term of imprisonment is over for 
some, they have not been released because Military Intelligence Unit 11 
has not given its consent to their release.

3.	Three persons are placed in each of the cells measuring 12' x 8' 
where they sleep, eat , and defecate. These conditions are most inhuman 
and a danger to health of the prisoners which has resulted in sickness 
and death for some.

4.	These conditions are in violation of Article 5 of the Universal 
Declaration of Human Rights which stipulates that " No one shall be 
subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or 
punishment ". In addition, these conditions violate the provisions of 
Section 7 of the Prisons Act which stipulates that  " When conditions in 
prisons are likely to have harmful effects on the health of the 
prisoners, new temporary structures should be constructed to ensure the 
safety and convenience of the prisoners". Furthermore, Section 13 of the 
Prisons Act which provides that the prison doctor is responsible for the 
health and cleanliness of the prison is being violated. The provisions 
of law in Chapter 8 under the heading  "Health of Prisoners" are not 
observed neither are some of the provisions of Chapter 8 of the Prisons 
Manual adhered to.

	5. The present inhuman and negligent treatment of political prisoners 
is deplorable. We urge the respective authorities to take necessary 
steps and direct corrective measures in the matter.


Central Executive Committee
National League for Democracy

Rangoon
25 March 1999








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