Aung San Suu Kyi has sent a message in response to Burma's controversial prisoner "amnesty" on May 17 2011. The amnesty, announced by president Thein Sein on May 16, saw the early release of around 17,000 prisoners. However, it is estimated that there were only around 40 prisoners of conscience amongst the thousands released. In a reaction to the amnesty Aung San Suu Kyi urged people to sign signature campaigns to release political prisoners. She said that now is the time to strengthen campaigns and put pressure on the new government to fulfil its promises.
