Ethnic groups demand dialogue

The ethnic armed organisations will sign a nationwide ceasefire deal only after a guarantee from the government that there will be a political dialogue, according to Laiza Ethnic Armed Organisations' Conference.

The meeting focused mainly on the nationwide ceasefire deal, which they expect will pave the way for political talks. Ceasefire and political dialogue were not dispensable, said Dr Salai Hlayan Hmone Sar Khaung, who also initiated a common attitude among ethnic groups, which have often complained ceasefires were not adhered to. 

Some ethnic organisations had been in favour of discussing the ceasefire and some of discussing both a ceasefire and political dialogue during the conference. Despite having a little difference among the ethnic groups, all decided ceasefire and political dialogue were indispensable.

But there was discussion as to what should come first, ceasefire or political dialogue. 

“Without a nationwide ceasefire, we can’t start a political 

dialogue. Moreover, it is not easy for us to sign the ceasefire deal without having a guarantee of leading the political dialogue. These two issues are of great importance. The first is that we would focus on the ceasefire,” Dr Salai said.

A federal Union must be established based on “Panglong spirit” and this was essential factor, he said, adding that it was a simple point. They would re-establish a federal Union through Panglong spirit and its principles. Panglong spirit was the slogan that all ethnic people had shouted for 60 years.

Ethnic leaders would decide their attitude to a ceasefire deal and their decision would depend on the government as to whether they accept this or not, Colonel Khun Okka, joint-secretary-2 of the United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC) said on Nov 1.

“We will have to clarify our position to the government in Myitkyina. Discussions have not reached the agreement yet. The government can’t respond to the wishes and attitudes of the ethnics immediately. Whether to accept or not the results of Laiza also depends on the government,” Colonel Khun Okka said.

“If the President signs our proposed points on the ceasefire, it will come true. We have no problem with them. We have written our proposed points we wanted. Also if the government wants to adjust our written proposed points, it depends on the government. We already offered a price like the sale of an item. If the government can afford it, we will reach an agreement,” Colonel Khun Okka said.

“We are glad with the result of our discussion and hoping for the best to come. We much hope the result will meet expectations of the people,” Dr Salai said.

A peace dialogue would be held in Myitkyina after Laiza. Continued talks were wanted with all ethnic armed organisations to attend, he said, noting “We will have to discuss who will attend the peace dialogue”.