Myanmar's military-led government has announced a reduction in the prison sentences of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi and former President Win Myint as part of a clemency granted to over 7,000 prisoners. However, Suu Kyi, who was initially sentenced to 33 years in prison, will still have to serve 27 years. The reduction came in connection with a religious holiday in the Buddhist-majority country.

The clemency, granted by the head of Myanmar's military council, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, is related to charges against Suu Kyi for violating coronavirus restrictions, illegally importing and possessing walkie-talkies, and sedition.

These charges were seen by her supporters and rights groups as attempts to discredit her and legitimize the military takeover earlier this year, preventing her from returning to politics.

The announcement of the reduction in sentences comes just a day after Myanmar's military extended the state of emergency imposed when it seized power from Suu Kyi's elected government 2 1/2 years ago, further delaying promised elections.

In addition to Suu Kyi and Win Myint, the clemency order granted reduced sentences, pardons, and amnesty to thousands of other prisoners. The release of political prisoners and detainees opposing military rule, however, remains unclear.

Since the military takeover, Myanmar has experienced widespread protests and a violent crackdown by security forces. According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a rights monitoring organization, thousands of people have been arrested, and over 3,800 civilians have been killed by security forces.

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has reiterated his call for the immediate release of Suu Kyi, Win Myint, and all arbitrarily detained prisoners. He also called for an end to violence, repression, and respect for human rights in Myanmar.

The clemency announcement coincided with Myanmar commemorating the day the Buddha gave his first sermon. The military leader also granted amnesty to foreign prisoners and members of ethnic armed groups. The extension of the state of emergency was justified by the need to restore normalcy and prepare for elections, according to Acting President Myint Swe.

In a significant development, Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai became the first foreign visitor to be granted access to Suu Kyi since her detention. He reported that Suu Kyi was in good health and expressed her willingness to engage in talks to resolve the crisis in Myanmar.

Suu Kyi, however, has been unable to provide her version of the meeting, which took place on July 9th. Myanmar's military confirmed the meeting but stated that it had no further details as it was a one-on-one meeting between Suu Kyi and the Thai diplomat.

As Myanmar continues to grapple with political turmoil and human rights concerns, there are ongoing calls for democratic rule and the immediate release of all political prisoners in the country. The situation remains tense, and international efforts, including those by the United Nations and regional organizations, are ongoing to mediate and resolve the crisis.