Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spoken of his relief and joy at the release of economist Sean Turnell after he spent almost two years in a Burmese (also known as Myanmar) jail.
Prof. Turnell and his wife Ha Vu were honoured in the House of Representatives during Question Time on Thursday, receiving a standing ovation from MPs.
The 58-year-old was arrested in early 2021 after Myanmar’s military junta seized power and was sentenced to three years in jail in September for “violating the country’s official state secrets act”.
The prime minister, who also spoke with Turnell in Bangkok immediately after he was released, praised his “courage, optimism and resilience”.
“As we entered the chamber, Sean said to me two weeks ago he was in prison, incarcerated by a regime that has trashed human rights in Myanmar,” Albanese told parliament.
“What he endured in his 650 days of incarceration is something no human being should have to endure, and yet he has done it with grace and, even with inhumane conditions, with profound humanity.”
Albanese paid tribute to Australian officials and consular staff for their efforts in securing Prof Turnell’s release and for providing him “glimmers of hope” in their advocacy.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton echoed those sentiments, saying it had been something the coalition had worked on in government.
“We spent many hours around the national security committee table looking at every possible angle of how we could exert pressure ... to see the early release of Sean Turnell,” he told parliament.
“That went on for way too long ... your bravery has shone through. The demeanour and the grace with which you’ve carried yourself is quite remarkable.”
Turnell and his wife also received applause in the Senate, where Foreign Minister Penny Wong welcomed them back to Australia.
“I know I speak for all Australians when I say we are so pleased to have you back here in Australia,” she said.
“No one should have to endure what you did, and that you’ve emerged from such an experience with humanity and humour intact is truly remarkable.”
Opposition foreign affairs spokesman Simon Birmingham thanked the returned professor for his conduct and his continued advocacy for the people of Myanmar.
“Noting that your engagement in Myanmar was one that helped others, to deliver for others and that the price you paid was an immense one,” he said.
“We know you will continue to work hard wherever you can for the people of Myanmar.”
