THE JUNTA’S SELECTIVE STRATEGY OF RELEASE At the start of 2026, the military leadership appeared to be consolidating power while trying to gain regional and international legitimacy. This included moves toward staged elections held in phases across December and January, alongside efforts to convene a military-backed parliament. Within this broader narrative of a transition to civilian rule, the junta released thousands of detainees, including some journalists, framing it as a sign of change. But on closer look, this is less about genuine reform and While some high-profile detainees were freed, many others remain behind bars under the same charges. more about control taking a different shape. The releases have been selective. While some high-profile detainees were freed, many others remain behind bars under the same charges. Evenzthose prosecuted under serious provisions like Sections 50(j) and 52(a) of the Counter-Terrorism Law were among those released, while others facing identical charges continue to be detained. This suggests that decisions are not being guided by legal consistency, but by political calculation. There is also a clear pattern in who gets released. Journalists and public figures with greater visibility or international recognition appear more likely to be freed. This allows the junta to draw attention to these cases and present an image of progress, while keeping less visible detainees in prison without the same level of scrutiny. In this sense, the releases function more as a public relations strategy than a meaningful shift. Many journalists remain detained, and the broader system of repression remainsfirmly in place. Update on Journalism and Media Safety in Myanmar 8