Oct 3, 2008 (DVB), Shan New Generation member Sai Myo Win Tun has been in hospital for more than a month due to deteriorating health conditions, according to the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy.

Sai Myo Win Tun, 47, is currently serving a 79-year prison sentence at Myingyan prison in Mandalay division.

SNLD spokesperson Sai Leik said a family member who went to visit Sai Myo Win Tun on 10 September said he was suffering from heart disease, hemorrhoids and a mental disorder.

His family wants him to be transferred to Rangoon for treatment and is planning to submit a request to the authorities.

Sai Myo Win Tun is one of eight Shan leaders given long-term prison sentences for discrediting the military government.

The family of Shan State Army-North leader general Hso Ten, who is serving a 106-year sentence in Khamtee prison in Sagaing division, has been requesting eye treatment for him for three months without success.

Of the remaining six, SNLD chair Khun Tun Oo is serving a 94-year sentence in Pu-ta-o jail while Sai Nyunt Lwin was sentenced to an 85-year prison term and is currently being held in Kalay prison in Sagaing division.

Sai Hla Aung is serving 75 years in Kyaukphyu prison in Arakan state, while Sai Htun Nyo is being held at Butheetaung prison, also in Arakan state, and Sai Nyi Moe is serving his 75-year sentence in Pakokku prison.

Sai Myint Than from the Shan New Generation group died in 2006 in Sandoway prison where he was serving a 75-year sentence.

Reporting by Nan Kham Kaew