Arrest of a Baptist pastor in Myanmar, Christian Solidarity Worldwide calls for his immediate release

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) denounces the arrest of Pastor Hkalam Samson, who was allegedly arrested at Mandalay International Airport, Myanmar, on December 5th. The organization calls for his immediate release. 

The British organization defending the rights of persecuted Christians Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) said it was "deeply disturbed" by the arrest of the Reverend Hkalam Samson at Myanmar's Mandalay International Airport on Monday.

(1/2) 'CSW is deeply troubled by the arrest of such a prominent and internationally respected religious leader in Myanmar, and are very concerned for his well-being.' - CSW's Senior Analyst for East Asia, @benedictrogers.https://t.co/diGHHrwyOs

— CSW_UK (@CSW_UK) December 7, 2022

CSW says the pastor, who is the former president of the Kachin Baptist Convention (KBC), was reportedly arrested at Mandalay International Airport "as he attempted to fly to Bangkok, Thailand."

The organization denounces the arrest of the Reverend Written as "one of the most eminent Christian religious leaders in Myanmar" as well as a "courageous defender of human rights".

“In April 2021, just over two months after the military coup in Myanmar that overthrew the democratically elected civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi, Reverend Samson issued a call to prayer for Myanmar, collaboration with the current secretary general of KBC", recalls CSW who adds that Dr Samson is also an "internationally respected" religious leader.

"Very concerned for his well-being", the Christian organization calls for his immediate release and urges the international community to act.

“We call on the Myanmar authorities to release him immediately, and we urge the international community to demand his unconditional release and ensure his well-being. »

Camille Westphal Perrier