Myanmar arrests opposition politicians for praying

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
Two members of detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi's political party were arrested and charged with insulting religion after they prayed for the release of political prisoners, a party spokesman said Friday. National League for Democracy spokesman Nyan Win said authorities arrested Chit Pe, the party's deputy chairman, and party member Aung Saw Wei in Twante on Tuesday. Both took part in a prayer service for the release of political prisoners which was held at a pagoda in the township, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of Yangon. Nyan Win said the two were charged with insulting religion, which carries a possible two-year jail sentence. "The government is suppressing anyone who opposes or challenges them," Nyan Win said. "If a Buddhist is arrested and charged for praying at a pagoda, what can they do?"