By Nway / MPA

As of November 1, 2024, the number of political prisoners who have died in detention this year has already exceeded the total death toll recorded throughout 2023, highlighting the worsening conditions faced by detainees.

In 2023, a total of 17 political prisoners passed away in detention facilities, whereas, within just the first ten months of 2024, the number has already reached 18, according to the Political Prisoners Network  Myanmar (PPNM).

“This increase in fatalities is a result of inadequate medical care in prisons. Even prominent figures like Dr. Zaw Myint Maung, the former Chief Minister of Mandalay Region, have lost their lives. It’s crucial that prison authorities ensure the well-being of detainees. We strongly urge the implementation of the necessary measures we have called for.,” said Ko Thaik Htun Oo, a leading committee member of PPNM, in a statement to MPA.

Four political prisoners died in October alone, marking it as the month with the highest toll this year.

“Only yesterday, another political prisoner passed away. This makes October the deadliest month so far this year,” Ko Thaik Htun Oo added.

Among the 18 political prisoners who died in the first ten months, three were from Daik-U Prison, the highest from any single prison, while two each were from Kyaikmaraw and Thayet prisons, marking them as the second-highest facilities in terms of prisoner deaths.