Dec 22, 2008 (DVB), Former long-term political prisoner Win Tin visited the families of several political prisoners in Rangoon yesterday to offer words of comfort and support.

Win Tin, a senior National League for Democracy member and veteran journalist, had served more than 19 years in prison when he was released in September.

"I went to see them in North Okkalapa with about ten other people, and we gave them what we could," Win Tin said.

"No one looked dejected; they thanked us for the visit and told us that they would do what they had to do."

Win Tin said the group was followed by government agents as they visited the families.

"I told them to do what they had to do but not to harass the households. I said they should ask me if they wanted to know something," Win Tin said.

"They followed me on seven or nine motorcycles and caused alarm among the local people," he said.

"They are trying to intimidate people, and they are also testing me."

Nyunt Ntyunt U, the mother of Pannit Tun, said she was very pleased to see Win Tin.

"He is an example to the people who have been charged and imprisoned unfairly," she said.

"He still looks very alert after being imprisoned for such a long time. He has an open-minded view of people."

<.p>Soe Myint Htein’s daughter Lin Lin Hlaing said the visit had given her comfort.

"I am encouraged by the fact that they came to give words of comfort, not that they came to give us presents," she said.

"I feel encouraged by it, and that spiritual strength is the most important thing for us."

Reporting by Yee May Aung