By Min Ni Kyaw - Nov 07, 2025

Although STUM leader Daw Myo Aye was released from Insein Prison on October 20, 2025, it has been difficult to accept the conditions of her release, according to a joint statement issued on the 100th day of her detention by the Solidarity Trade Union of Myanmar (STUM) and international solidarity organizations.

While she has been freed, Daw Myo Aye had to post bail of 6 million kyats (approximately USD 2,860) for charges under  Section 5(1)(f)(g) of the Probation and Probation of Offenders Act, 1961. The bail was granted by the Shwepyithar Township Court.

Additionally, in relation to the 2022 Associations Registration Law (Section 40 and 41), seized IT equipment, including her mobile phone, was only returned after a separate bail of 60 million kyats (USD 28,600) was posted with two guarantors, according to labor rights groups.

The court also issued an injunction prohibiting any sale, distribution, or deletion of the data contained in the retrieved devices.

STUM said in the statement that it is difficult to regard Daw Myo Aye’s release as a genuine restoration of her freedom to organize due to these conditions.

The statement further noted that several STUM members, including Daw Myo Aye’s daughter and labour rights activist Ma Thin Htet San, along with Ma Myint Myint Khine, Ma Su Myat Noe, U Thiha Htun, Ko Zaw Htike, Ko Zaw San Naing, Ko Kyaw Thant Naing, Ma Hayman Oo, and Ma June Tue Maung, remain in detention.

STUM emphasized that despite mounting challenges, the organization remains committed to advocating for the rights of workers and building a dignified, rights-respecting society. The group pledged that allied organizations will continue working together for the release of all nine detained STUM members.