May 20, 2009 (DVB), In a surprise move, the Burmese government has allowed 10 reporters and a number of foreign diplomats inside the courtroom where Aung San Suu Kyi is currently on trial.
The move has surprised many observers given that media is usually barred from trials involving high-profile Burmese political prisoners.
Five reporters from international media agencies Reuters, Agence France-Presse (AFP), Nippon TV, Sankei Shimbun and Jiji Press , the latter three Japanese , have entered.
They are soon to be followed by five domestic Burmese journalists. None of the reporters are allowed cameras or recording equipment.
National League for Democracy Central Executive Committee member, Win Tin, said that the foreign journalists were allowed in under a raffle system.
"Whatever it is, the situation is a little bit extraordinary," he said, adding however that the demands of Suu Kyi's supporters were still far from being met.
"But we feel slightly better now that the media and the like are allowed in. We like it," he said.
A reported 28 embassy cars were allowed inside Insein prison today, where the trial is being held, including officials from the United States, Britain, Germany and France.
No further information has been given.
Reporting by Naw Say Phaw
