John Yettaw To Be Released, Webb Meets With Aung San Suu Kyi
by JONATHAN HARRIS, Managing Editor
Senator Jim Webb’s trip to Burma appears to be successful, at least partially. After meeting with General Than Shwe, Webb’s office announced that American John Yettaw, the man who swam to imprisoned leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s house, prompting her arrest and subsequent trial, would be released.
Webb also requested that Suu Kyi herself be released during the meeting with Shwe.
His office released a photo showing Sen. Webb meeting with Suu Kyi herself. In this rare glimpse at the Democratic leader, she appears to be in good health.
According to the Associated Press, Yettaw has six children and has been married at least four times. His current wife and ex-wives all expressed surprise and relief that Yettaw would soon return home.
From the AP:
Betty Yettaw has said previously that her husband “became interested in the plight of the Karen people and the Burmese people in general, and then Aung San Suu Kyi,” and had merely wanted to interview her. He arrived after the swim before dawn with cramps in both legs, according to court testimony. Suu Kyi said in a statement at trial that he told her he would be arrested if he went out in daylight, and at night, requested that he be allowed to stay overnight for health reasons.
After his capture, Yettaw spent a week before his conviction in a prison hospital for epileptic seizures. He is also said to suffer from asthma and diabetes.
Photo released by the office of Senator Jim Webb.
- Posted by Causecast
Related causes: Human Rights
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