SPDC praises cease-fire groups

MoeMaKa Reporter No. 001

13 September 2009

        The former leaders of Kachin and Mon cease-fire groups, and their decision to establish political parties and participate in 2010 election were praised by a political article in Burma’s state-run media. By pointing out two cease-fire groups, Kachin Independent Army (KIA) and military arm of New Mon State Party (NMSP), the article eulogizes that the groups have chosen the best, the most appropriate, and the safest approach. The article also makes a comment that other cease-fire groups will also discuss, negotiate and cooperate to do so like KIA and NMSP.

          Although the author makes hints to cease-fire groups in his article, there is still quiet among leaders of other cease-fire groups. Some leaders who have close communication to media said that cease-fire groups still do not fully agree to the junta’s proposals.

          Author of the article in state-run media is Kyaw Ye Min. As usual habit of the state-run media, there is no introductory about who author is, but aims and contents of the article could be recognized as junta’s opinions. The author said the planning to transform cease-fire groups into Border-Guard-Forces and keep under Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services is good to the groups. He also makes a comment that the state, the junta will take full responsibility and accountability to cease-fire groups’ own properties and personal security matters. At the present days, there are 17 major and 20 minor cease-fire groups in Burma.