Mar 21, 2008 (DVB), High profile activist Htin Kyaw appeared in court yesterday to defend himself against charges brought by the government for his role in demonstrations in August last year.

He was accompanied in court by his defence lawyer U Maung Maung Latt, who is a central court lawyer.

Witnesses for the prosecution gave evidence during yesterday's trial of the activist, who was arrested on 25 August for his part in instigating protests over commodity price increases.

His next hearing is due to take place on 28 March.

Htin Kyaw was placed in solitary confinement at the beginning of the month after shouting political slogans against the government and upcoming national referendum.

Reporting by Aye Nai