Myanmar Frees Jailed Pastor and Human Rights Advocate Rev Dr Hkalam Samson After Six Months

In a significant development, Rev Dr Hkalam Samson, the former President of the Kachin Baptist Convention (KBC), has been released from prison in Myanmar/Burma, sources have confirmed to Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW). Rev Dr Samson, a renowned human rights advocate, was initially arrested on December 5, 2022, at Mandalay International Airport while attempting to travel to Bangkok. He was later sentenced to six years in prison on April 7, 2023, on charges of unlawful association, defaming the State, and terrorism.

Rev Dr Samson’s release comes after a national amnesty earlier this year, although he was briefly returned to prison grounds before being freed. CSW’s CEO, Scot Bower, welcomed the news, stating that Rev Dr Samson should never have been imprisoned and urging the Myanmar military to ensure his freedom is respected. As an internationally respected human rights advocate and non-violent Christian pastor, Rev Dr Samson’s release is a significant victory for human rights and freedom of religion in Myanmar/Burma.