Security group accused of rights violations against Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State.

Sectarian violence has been primarily directed against minority Muslims.

Thein Sein becomes the first Myanmar president to be welcomed to the White House in almost 47 years.

Move comes day President Thein Sein due to leave for a landmark visit to the U.S.

The dark side of the nation's celebrated transition to democracy coming at the expense of minority Muslims.

First by the nation's head of state in almost 47 years and a sign of warming ties.

Buddhist-led violence displacing thousands, destroying mosques and homes.

Release is the latest in a series of amnesties decided by reformist President Thein Sein.

While Washington says country's overall direction is still positive, some worry Myanmar risks backsliding toward military rule that ended two years ago.