Jul 31, 2008 (DVB), Prominent comedian and activist Zarganar and sports writer Zaw Thet Htway have appeared in court for the first time since they were arrested in June.

The two appeared before Western Rangoon provincial court in Insein prison and were charged with violating section 505(b) of the penal code for inciting offences against the state or causing public alarm.

The charge carries a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment.

The next court hearing for the pair will be held on 7 August, according to family members of other political prisoners who were present at the hearing.

The two men's families said they had not been informed of any court hearings.

Both Zarganar and Zaw Thet Htway were enthusiastically working to provide aid to cyclone victims before their arrests on 4 and 13 June respectively.

Reporting by DVB