Govt and Rakhine officials should hold productive dialogues

By Phadu Tun Aung 16 Mar 2019

Phadu Tun Aung/DMG

March 16, Sittwe

During the time when ongoing intense fighting between the Tatmadaw and Arakan Army has displaced tens of thousands of civilians in Rakhine State, which is not included in the zones that government’s military declared unilateral ceasefire zones, the President’s Office formed the “Supporting Committee for Rakhine State’s Peace and Stability” on March 14.

The announcement of the committee formation mentioned that it is created to prevent any potential antagonism that could lead to instability in Rakhine State and to work for peace and stability in the region.

Rakhine State Hluttaw representatives U Oo Hla Saw and Daw Htoot May, whose names are included as members of the committee, said that they were not told in advance about the committee and were not asked their opinions.

“We were not told about the formation of the committee via phone or written letter. The announcement is released without asking my opinion. The mandate of the committee is narrow and vague. I have no reason to work for the committee. And I don’t know about it,” Member of Parliament of Pyithu Hluttaw U Oo Hla Zaw said. 

Daw Htoot May, MP of Amyotha Hluttaw, said she consider participating in the committee if it proves beneficial for Rakhine people. 

“It would be better consulting with us in advance to work for Rakhine affairs especially. Now, they did it without our knowledge. It is necessary to really work for the interest of Rakhine people by consulting with us beforehand,” she said. 

Saw Mya Razar Lin, one of the top seniors of the Arakan Liberation Party, said that it was necessary to consult with CSOs, political parties and armed groups to work for Rakhine affairs. 

“When taking into account considering Rakhine State’s peace and stability, the government needs to talk with the Arakan Liberation party, which is integral to the ceasefire agreement. And leaders of political parties and CSOs should be included in the dialogues. The government should discuss with these people before doing something for the peace and stability of Rakhine State,” she said.

The 14-member committee comprises Arakan politicians, military personnel and civilians. U Aye Thar Aung, Amyotha Hluttaw vice speaker, is assigned the chair of the committee. Its vice chairmen are Information Minister Dr. Pe Myint and Rakhine State Chief Minister U Nyi Pu.

The committee is tasked with clarification on policies of the government, conducting field observation in the region for peace and negotiating among state government, parliament and people.