Rights commission calls for immediate ceasefire
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Following a visit to camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Kachin State, the chair of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission called for a nationwide ceasefire deal between the government and armed ethnic groups to be signed immediately.
“The ceasefire is not enough to achieve peace, but it is the first step,” commission chairman Win Mya said.
The armed conflicts that began after regaining independence have damaged many communities, Win Mya noted, adding that even under the current government there are about 100,000 IDPs in Kachin State due to clashes between Union troops and the Kachin Independence Army.
“Our commission is hoping for an immediate nationwide ceasefire deal. If the nationwide ceasefire is successful, ethnic groups will enjoy the fruits of peace. The ceasefire and peace will contribute much to the enhancement of the human rights,” Win Mya said.
“Commission members visited IDP camps in Kachin State and gave assistance to IDPs. Besides the harm it does to people and property, armed conflict remains an obstacle for democratic reforms nationwide,” Win Mya added.
“In my opinion, achieving ceasefire is not enough. Much more must be done. Development projects will have to be carried out in places where fighting is taking place, but the peace process can only continue once a ceasefire is achieved. The ceasefire is the first step,” Win Mya said.
