Armed groups ask to join ceasefire
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Kokang's Myanmar Nationalities Democratic Alliance Army, the Ta'ang National Liberation Army and Arakan Army have released a joint statement saying that are ready to join the ceasefire process.
In the statement dated August 5, they said the nationwide ceasefire agreement and political dialogue were essential to gain peace.
“Our three groups offered to participate in the ceasefire. If government wants peace, we are ready to talk. If the government receives our offer, we will discuss how to participate in the ceasefire,” said Colonel Tar Phone Kyaw, general secretary of the TNLA.
He said that there was no fighting between the government and TNLA.
“We pray that future discussions will be productive. We suggest the agreement is implemented as soon as possible. That’s why our three groups offered to implement the ceasefire,” added the colonel.
The government has been adamant that it was difficult to allow some groups to sign the peace deal. In February, the government army clashed with Kokang rebels and clashes with TNLA and Arakan Army followed.
Several ethnic group leaders have warned that true peace would be achieved only when all parties agree to end their conflicts and move the country foward.
The 9th round of negotiation of the national ceasefire agreement started on August 5 in Yangon. The main topic is which groups would be allowed to sign the agreement.
