ASIA/MYANMAR - The army calls for a ceasefire with ethnic minorities

Monday, 17 October 2016 human rights   ethnic minorities   religious minorities   violence   wars  

Naypyitaw (Agenzia Fides) - A strong appeal to ethnic minority groups, who have not yet laid down their arms and should sign the nationwide ceasefire agreement before the political talks: was launched by the Commander-in-Chief of the Burmese army, General Min Aung Hlaing, during a ceremony in Naypyitaw to mark a year since eight rebel armies signed the accord.
As sources of Fides report, with reference to groups such as the Kachin and the Wa, who have not yet signed an agreement, the General said: "I am urging all groups to participate to implement the ceasefire for the inspiration of future generations".
The Government of Mynmar, led by the National League for Democracy, described the peace process as a "top priority". This is why the military leader invited to "prevent any more time being wasted " and rebuild "mutual trust" between the army and rebel groups through negotiation.
"Demanding rights using armed force is the opposite of democracy and can damage the peace process", remarked the Commander-in-Chief.
At the beginning of September the national conference of the Burmese ethnic minorities was held in Naypyitaw. Even if it did not end with a cease-fire, the conference started the process to develop a "road map" towards peace within six months. The minorities, supported by the Churches and civil society organizations are appealing to the military not to launch new offensives in areas of conflict and not to carry out abuse on indigenous peoples. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 17/10/2016)


Share: