Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi Sentenced to 5 Years in Corruption Case

KOMPAS.com - In the first verdict in several corruption cases leveled against her, Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi was found guilty of corruption charges and sentenced to five years in prison by a court in the military-ruled country on Wednesday, April 27.

A legal official confirmed the conviction to several news agencies but was asked not to be named as the trial is being held behind closed doors.

Suu Kyi was charged with accepting a bribe of $600,000 and 11 kilograms (24.5 pounds) of gold from a former chief minister of Yangon city.

Also read: Myanmar Court Sentences Aung San Suu Kyi to Four Years

Phyo Min Thein, who was once a confidant of Suu Kyi, testified in October 2021 that he handed the payment to her.

Suu Kyi, who was ousted in a military coup last year, has dismissed the allegations against her. Combined with Wednesday's conviction, Myanmar courts have sentenced her to a total of 11 years in prison.

What charges is Suu Kyi facing?

Myanmar's military leaders have accused Suu Kyi of numerous offenses, ranging from alleged violations of state secrets and electoral laws to corruption.

Also read: Aung San Suu Kyi, Australian Advisor Charged in Myanmar with Official Secrets Violations

The combined charges against her carry prison sentences that could total over 150 years. Before Wednesday's ruling, Suu Kyi had been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of violating the country's coronavirus pandemic rules as well as illegally importing walkie-talkies.