Kachin Parliament calls for public say

To ensure long-lasting peace in the country, a proposal to form a peacemaking committee involving tribal representatives, city elders and MPs representing national races has been submitted to the Kachin parliament. The proposal, agreed by all MPs, was submitted by MP Chan Tan Khin of Naung Cho Constituency No 1.

 “All residents of Kachin State – not just Kachin people – have suffered in the war. People have come here from remote areas [of Kachin] to discuss peace issues. Tribal representatives and Ministers for National Races Affairs should at least be able to listen to the government and KIO. Fielding suggestions and ideas from the public can achieve desired peace more quickly.”

MP Chan said that all armed groups, including the military, have a duty to serve the public and its well-being.

Chan’s call for a more inclusive peace process was backed by Speaker of the Kachin State Parliament, Ya Wan Jone.

“Peace is the concern of all people in this state. Kachin, Shan, Bamar and other ethnic groups live in Kachin State. All should be involved in peacemaking. The government and the KIO are still in discussions over a ceasefire, but ethnic peoples living in the state  have been excluded from the discussion. Both parties have to discuss the willingness of the public” towards solutions, said Ya Wan Jone. 

The Kachin State Parliament did not take part in peace talks last month between the government and KIO.