National League of Democracy (NLD) statesman Win Tin, 84, is in an improved condition, despite being forced to remain in Rangoon General Hospital.

Speaking to DVB on Monday, the niece of the high profile former journalist and political prisoner said that he was now speaking and breathing on his own.

“They have removed the respirator, which he is very pleased about as it required a tube down his throat,” said Yin Tun, who has been caring for her famous uncle as he recovers from 29 April surgery on his large intestine.

Han Thar Myint, of the NLD Executive Committee, says the irrepressible democracy campaigner is even trying to work from his hospital bed.

“Win Tin is used to writing his own articles, that’s the only work he can do at the moment, so he is doing it.” Han Thar Myint said on Tuesday. “He has improved very much, and can speak very clearly. However the doctors wont allow him to work, so he must hide his pens and papers when the doctors come to check up on him.”

[related]

Despite Win Tin’s improved condition, the NLD remains unsure of when their second in charge will be free to return home. “Nobody can assess when he might be able to leave hospital,” Han Thar Myint said.

“There are a lot of media people waiting inside the hospital, near his room. That is why Daw Suu has not yet visited,” the NLD spokesman added.

“She is nervous that her arrival would cause a stir, with media people following her into Win Tin’s room.”