Wednesday, November 30, 2016

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


Government Eases Trade Restrictions

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 06:27 AM PST

A plan is announced to boost trade for joint ventures between local business people and foreign investors.

The post Government Eases Trade Restrictions appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Bail Denied for Journalists Charged Under Controversial Defamation Law

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 05:55 AM PST

A Rangoon court dismisses bail requests from Eleven Media Group's CEO and chief editor charged under Article 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law.

The post Bail Denied for Journalists Charged Under Controversial Defamation Law appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Dr. Myat Wunna Soe: ‘We Do Not Have the Funds to Repair the Cars’  

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 04:50 AM PST

The Irrawaddy interviews the Ministry of Health and Sports deputy director general about donated cars left to rust in a hospital compound.

The post Dr. Myat Wunna Soe: 'We Do Not Have the Funds to Repair the Cars'   appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Bagan Charity Single Released

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 04:42 AM PST

One of Burma's most celebrated rock stars, Lay Phyu, will release a charity single to fund the renovation of quake-hit temples in Bagan.

The post Bagan Charity Single Released appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Defense Lawyers Expect Ruling Soon in Koh Tao Murder Appeal

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 03:38 AM PST

During a highly controversial investigation, Thai police allegedly beat the two suspects and forced them to falsely confess.

The post Defense Lawyers Expect Ruling Soon in Koh Tao Murder Appeal appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Two Police Officers Missing in Northern Shan State

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 03:09 AM PST

The officers fail to return to Nang Pha Kar village police outpost after escorting a detainee from jail to court.

The post Two Police Officers Missing in Northern Shan State appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

UN Warns Burma Govt Reputation at Stake Over Rohingya Crisis

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 02:31 AM PST

The reputation of Burma's govt is at stake amid international concerns over how it is dealing with violence in the country's divided northwest.

The post UN Warns Burma Govt Reputation at Stake Over Rohingya Crisis appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

UNFC to Elect New Leader in December

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 01:23 AM PST

Ethnic armed alliance discusses new leadership elections, northern Shan State conflict and the country's peace process at a meeting in Chiang Mai.

The post UNFC to Elect New Leader in December appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

China Offers Burma Support to End Ethnic Unrest Near Border

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 10:40 PM PST

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi says Beijing is worried by the deteriorating situation and repeats a call for an end to military action.

The post China Offers Burma Support to End Ethnic Unrest Near Border appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

UN Security Council Set to Approve New N. Korea Sanctions

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 08:22 PM PST

After months of wrangling, the UN Security Council is prepared to impose tougher sanctions on North Korea over its fifth and largest nuclear test yet.

The post UN Security Council Set to Approve New N. Korea Sanctions appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

China Blasts Singapore’s Military Cooperation with Taiwan

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 08:16 PM PST

A Chinese state newspaper has criticized Singapore over the Southeast Asian city-state's military training with self-governing Taiwan.

The post China Blasts Singapore's Military Cooperation with Taiwan appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Does the KNU Seek Support from Naypyidaw?

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 06:23 PM PST

Ethnic Karen leader Gen Saw Mutu Say Poe's meetings in Naypyidaw suggest Burmese hopes to strengthen ties with the KNU.

The post Does the KNU Seek Support from Naypyidaw? appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

National News

National News


Airport bomb scare proves false alarm

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 12:12 AM PST

Police yesterday announced that four bottles of liquid found at Yangon International Airport did not contain explosive material, after the discovery triggered the city's latest security scare.

China, Myanmar meet as fighting continues in Shan State

Posted: 30 Nov 2016 12:10 AM PST

China has stepped up its engagement with Myanmar's peace process amid ongoing clashes near the country's shared border in Shan State, having twice held senior-level meetings with negotiators over the past week.

9 acres of Marga land returned to govt, but MP demands more

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:56 PM PST

The return to public hands of more than half a plot of land given to Marga Landmark Co for the relocated Dagon City real estate project in the waning days of the previous government is not enough for MP U Maung Maung Ohn, who yesterday called for more.

Explosions, civilian shot as Muse remains on edge

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:56 PM PST

Three improvised explosive devices were detonated on November 28 in Muse township and one civilian was injured when security forces fired on him near the site of one of the explosions, as instability prevails over a week after a coordinated attack in the border region.

Myanmar and India to open new international border gate in Tamu

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:55 PM PST

Pilgrims, traders and adventurous holidaymakers can soon look forward to the opening of a new intenrational border gate between India and Myanmar at Tamu, officials say.

MP’s urgent proposal to discuss northern Shan State conflict OK’d

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:34 PM PST

A lawmaker from the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party submitted an urgent proposal to the lower house yesterday, seeking a discussion on the conflict that broke out last week in northeastern Shan State.

Witness reports child rapes amid campaign against sexual abuse

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:31 PM PST

Two children were reportedly raped in Mandalay on the same day the city rallied for stricter penalties for people guilty of sexually abusing minors.

President outlines steps for green future

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:25 PM PST

President U Htin Kyaw set out the government's vision for the country's transition to a green economy yesterday in an opening address to the 5th Green Economy Green Growth Forum, held in Nay Pyi Taw.

Street vendors angered by new night market arrangements

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:24 PM PST

Street vendors yesterday vented their discontent over stall allotments at the new night market on Strand Road, with some not selected saying they've drawn a short straw.

Nay Pyi Taw’s fresh produce market to reopen in January

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:21 PM PST

Residents of the nation's capital should have their fresh produce stalls back by the end of January when upgrades for Tha Pyay Gone Market are expected to wrap up, according to the Nay Pyi Taw City Development Committee.

Shan Herald Agency for News

Shan Herald Agency for News


CONFLICT IN SHAN STATE: Aftermath of Northern Alliance offensives

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 11:13 PM PST

The 20 November Northern Alliance -Burma (NA-B) offensive against the Burma Army or Tatmadaw and police forces in northern Burma, along the Chinese border, that erupted suddenly has changed the peace process landscape drastically.

While the NA-B reasoned that it has to take such actions because it has no other choice to demonstrate its frustration and dire political side-lining of the Tatmadaw, with head of the National League for Democracy (NLD) regime Aung San Suu Kyi, perhaps reluctantly endorsing its hard-line position vis a vis the three excluded Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs), namely the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Arakan Army (AA).

To many, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) joining the so-called NA-B might be a puzzle, as it is not excluded from the peace process, even though it has not sign any state or union-level ceasefire agreement, including the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA).

But the point and reason for the KIA forming the NA-B together with the three excluded EAOs is that it has been militarily pressured and has to endure the massive onslaught for three months in a row, since the end of the first 21st Century Panglong Conference, which the KIA also attended.

The Tatmadaw's military pressure has been, no doubt, to push for the KIA to sign the NCA. The NA-B offensive, on the other hand, is primarily aimed at taking the heat away from the Tatmadaw offensives on the KIA, apart from showing displeasure of Tatmadaw's exclusion policy on the three excluded EAOs, hoping perhaps that the Tatmadaw might rethink its rigid stance and make accommodation for participation in the peace process.

The NCA has been subjected to discussion for the time being at the insistence of the United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC), a seven party military alliance, also headed by the KIA, to incorporate its 8 point proposal, which includes declaration of bilateral  nationwide ceasefire between the Tatmadaw and the EAOs; tripartite dialogue composition in all levels of peace process negotiations, as decades-long endorsed by the U.N.; commitment to the structuring of a genuine federal, democratic union and most importantly, all-inclusiveness of all EAOs – not written as a point in the proposal, but nevertheless, its main point of refusal to sign the NCA last year in October.

The government Peace Commission (PC) has even highlighted this point to accuse the UNFC that its refusal of not signing the NCA, due to lack of all-inclusiveness of all EAOs in the peace process might be just a pretext to delay the signing. The UNFC has yet to come up with a clarification to this accusation.

Recent situation

The recent situation after more than a week was said to dissipate and the government in control of the Kutkai-Muse road. But rebel sources said the clashes are ongoing and don't seem to end anytime soon.

According to Myanmar times of 28 November, Colonel Mong Aik Kyaw, a spokesperson for the NA-B, fighting continued, with clashes in at least five different locations including Mong Koe, Pang Sai and the 105 Mile border trade zone.

Rebel sources also reported that they have seized most of Mong Ko, a border town in northern Shan State, but the Burma Army retained control of a nearby hilltop base as fighting continued on 28 November.

The Irrawaddy also reported that the ethnic armed groups took control of the Mong Ko border gate, the immigration zone, and most areas of the town. Then they launched an offensive against Burma Army troops in the area, according to the joint ethnic armed groups' spokesperson, Tar Aike Kyaw.

As of the 28 November morning, they had captured several Burma Army positions in the town.

"Already, the town of Mong Ko has fallen into the hands of the joint ethnic armed groups," Tar Aike Kyaw told the Irrawaddy.

The Burma Army has suffered a high number of casualties, and the ethnic armed groups were able to seize many weapons, according to a video posted on Facebook by NA-B.

Thus, while the Burma Army is eager to promote the situation as under control, the war is likely to go on for a while, as it is also said to be trying to solve the problem militarily and also negotiation.

According to general secretary Khin Zaw Oo of the government's Peace Commission, during the Peace Forum held at Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon, on 25 November, ongoing conflicts in northern Shan State have been approached not only via military power but also through negotiations. He was addressing the forum on the issue of achieving a total ceasefire and nationwide peace.

Call for intervention and military reinforcement

The NA-B has called for the Chinese intervention, in its 7 point statement of 25 November stating: "In order to reach durable, stable and genuine political negotiation (process), China, which is sharing border (with Burma), is requested to mediate on the basis of equality."

The statement further thanked the United Wa State Army (UWSA) for its timely statement to be a mediator to end the armed conflict.

According to Myanmar Times, following a "2+2" meeting of members of the ministries of foreign affairs and defense with their Chinese counterparts on November 25 in Naypyitaw, the two sides released a joint statement addressing the recent uptick in conflict along the border.

"Both sides expressed their desire for the prevalence of rule of law and security along  Burma‐China borders, and the Chinese side expressed its hope for speedy solution of current tension in the northern part of Myanmar and to restore normalcy in the border areas as early as possible," it read.

The Joint Strategy Team has urged all "warring parties to fully respect international humanitarian law, which provides specific measures to protect civilians in armed conflicts".
The team continued, "An immediate cessation of hostilities must take place. A peaceful solution to the conflicts in Myanmar is a critical priority for the future of the country and its people. This should be based in open political dialogues that address the long‐standing issues which are at the origin of this conflict."

"The Tatmadaw is reinforcing its military strength and the Chinese military is also drilling along its side of the border," Sai Loon Nao told Shan Herald. "The fighting is going to continue although the situation is calm in town."

Following intensified hostilities between Burmese government forces and ethnic armed groups in northern Shan State, the Chinese military has beefed up its manpower and munitions along the border, according to local sources.

Sai Bee, a resident in Muse Township who fled across the border to the Chinese town of Shweli to escape the recent fighting, also told Shan Herald that he saw tanks and more than 200 military trucks full of soldiers arriving at the China‐Burma border on Saturday.

"More than 200 military trucks, tanks and heavy weapons, including machine guns, came in with the troops and they are now positioned near the border," he said. "It has been reported that they have been sent in to protect the border area, but we do not know what is going to happen next."

According to Ko Aung Aung who is also a resident in Muse, at least ten Burmese military trucks with troops and weapons from Lashio were on Friday heading to the volatile areas of 105‐Mile, Parng Zai and Mong Koe in Muse District.

Now let us look at what some of the crucial actors are saying.

Aung San Suu Kyi

Aung San Suu Kyi's announcement of 23 November regarding the armed conflict in northern Shan State seems to be blaming the NA-B and endorsing the Tatmadaw.

Buttressing the blame on the NA-B, the announcement said: "At a time when people of Myanmar are in process of striving for national reconciliation and peace that had remained elusive to them in the past, it is extremely disappointing and saddening that these incidents are instigated. Our sympathies and condolences are with victims who had lost their lives and who are wounded. Mining of bridges and attacks on border outposts by these armed groups also cut-off flow of trade, transport and communication are detrimentally affecting the socio-economic lives of civilian population in the area."

To reiterate her call for the signing of NCA and praising the Tatmadaw, the announcement wrote: "Despite these incidents, the Government is keeping the peace door open to welcome all relevant stakeholders for participation in the peace process. To this end, the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) is needed to be signed to end all conflicts. The contribute to this process stability and normalization must return to the State State. The government is striving its utmost to return the situation to normalcy. The valiant effort of the Tatmadaw and security forces has resulted in stabilizing a certain degree of stability in the Northeast Shan State."

Min Aung Hlaing

Meanwhile, Commander-in-Chief Min Aung Hlaing, intentionally or unintentionally raised the question of a potential military takeover of the country, amid an ongoing military conflict in northern Shan State and threats from Muslim militants in the west Burma.

During the month of November alone he mentioned twice the clause in Burma's 2008 Constitution—which was also drafted by the military—that allows the military to stage a coup in the event of chaos and instability. Besides, the Constitution also reserves 25 percent of the seats in Parliament for military representatives.

Recently, on 26 November, the Global New Light of Myanmar reported that the military chief
pointed out to the senior military officers in his speech at the National Defense University that provisions for emergency situations are included in the Constitution of Myanmar, 2008 and members of the Defense Services are required to learn the situations on the ground and to work in the interest of ethnic people.

When he was visiting Brussels earlier this month, to attend the European Union Military Committee (EUMC) for the first time on 9 November, the senior general also defended the 2008 Military-drafted Constitution, which allows for the participation of defense services in national politics. He praised the Constitution for restricting, in a state of emergency, the military from remaining in power too long, and requiring them to act in accordance with the President's approval.

Nai Han Tha

Regarding the NA-B offensive, the UNFC leader Nai Han Thar when asked by the Democratic Voice of Burma on how his organization would handle the situation, replied: "The Kachin, Palaung, Arakan and Kokang combined resistance is in reality trying to destroy (counter) the (Tatmadaw's) offensive with a new pattern of approach. The government has been conducting offensive for three months now and if only defensive mode is employed, we will be hurt. By maneuvering outside, the government troops have to take security measures of their areas, which the alliance believes would lessen their offensives."

Earlier, an NCA signatory ethnic leader also commented that the NA-B might be employing "offensive is the best defensive" strategy, to counter the prolonged attacks of the Burma Army.

Analysis

According to Jane's Terrorism & Insurgency Monitor Briefing of 25 November, the recent conflict might be the result of EAOs countering and resisting the Tatmadaw's military pressure to sign the NCA. And the offensive might be probably designed to show the capability and cohesion of the NA-B to conduct such a large scale operation. But may also be an indication of an attempt by China to pressure Naypyitaw into revamping the peace process.

It seems the coordinated attacks have achieved the attention and message that the UNFC and NA-B were keen to deliver. But the simmering armed conflict would likely go on for a while, until there is a change of attitude in the peace process that all stakeholders could be at home with.

Meanwhile the cost of conflict, which have produced a few thousands refugee fleeing to China and IDPs around the conflict areas, human causalities and economic cost, would be squarely put on the shoulders of the NA-B. Already, the parliament has agreed to discuss the issue, emphasizing it on protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity, labeling the EAOs as being terrorist elements.

The EAOs has countered that when the Tatmadaw's offensives resulted in gross human rights violations in ethnic areas, which the ethnic population have to bear the brunt, nothing much was ever mentioned. 

Whatever the case, this blame game won't bring anyone, anywhere, any good and the lessons to be learned from this conflict episode is that military pressure to goad the EAOs into signing the NCA is back-lashing and it is time to accommodate the excluded parties into the peace process, so as to become all-inclusive, in trying to build a genuine federal system of government that all have been aspiring for so long.


Tuesday, November 29, 2016

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


Are Burma’s Politicians Fishing in Troubled Waters?

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 07:49 AM PST

Thirteen political parties release a declaration calling for a meeting of Burma's National Defense and Security Council.

The post Are Burma's Politicians Fishing in Troubled Waters? appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Education Ministry Wants to Take Back Rangoon Land from Property Developer

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 06:25 AM PST

'We want all 17.7 acres back to use for education and research. I would like to make a request to the Parliament,' says U Win Maw Tun.

The post Education Ministry Wants to Take Back Rangoon Land from Property Developer appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

In Rangoon, There is Plenty to be Afraid of

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 04:28 AM PST

A recent spate of bombings in the city reveals the real dangers to Rangoon's residents—a lack of transparency and rule of law.

The post In Rangoon, There is Plenty to be Afraid of appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to Visit Singapore

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 04:12 AM PST

The State Counselor will open an exhibition as part of celebrations to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between Burma and Singapore.

The post Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to Visit Singapore appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Child Law Revised to Increase Punishment for Offenders

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 04:04 AM PST

The Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Ministry revises the existing 1993 Child Law and ups the punishment handed out in child rape cases.

The post Child Law Revised to Increase Punishment for Offenders appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

KBZ Bank Launches New High-Interest Account to Attract Savers

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 03:58 AM PST

'This plan will encourage people to save money regularly and at a higher interest rate,' says U Soe Tin Maung Zaw, the bank's general manager.

The post KBZ Bank Launches New High-Interest Account to Attract Savers appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Police Remain Tight-Lipped About Rangoon Explosions

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 01:52 AM PST

Police have not yet delivered an official explanation to the public regarding an investigation into a number of minor explosions in Rangoon.

The post Police Remain Tight-Lipped About Rangoon Explosions appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Suspected Explosive Devices Found at Rangoon Airport

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 01:01 AM PST

Initial laboratory tests find four bottles of M-150 energy drink do not contain explosive but are filled with liquid painkiller, wax and oil.

The post Suspected Explosive Devices Found at Rangoon Airport appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Four Inmates Riot in Pathein Prison

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 12:00 AM PST

'We have shackled them in accordance with the prison manual, and we have opened a case against them with the police,' says the correctional director.

The post Four Inmates Riot in Pathein Prison appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Global Companies Linked to US-Sanctioned UWSA Tin Mine

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 10:02 PM PST

The chain connecting some of the world's best-known brands with a mine in one the most inaccessible corners of Southeast Asia has many links.

The post Global Companies Linked to US-Sanctioned UWSA Tin Mine appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Thailand’s Cabinet Acknowledges Appointment of a New King, says Defense Minister

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 09:33 PM PST

The cabinet will ask the president of parliament to invite Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn to become king, according to procedure.

The post Thailand’s Cabinet Acknowledges Appointment of a New King, says Defense Minister appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Ten Things to Do in Rangoon This Week

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 05:40 PM PST

Iron Cross, Iron Cross, Iron Cross, and a bunch of other artsy stuff. Did we mention Iron Cross?

The post Ten Things to Do in Rangoon This Week appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

National News

National News


Annan to make second Myanmar visit

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 12:35 AM PST

Amid continued violence in northern Rakhine State and growing concern from international observers, former UN secretary general Kofi Annan will be paying another visit to Myanmar while State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi may be reconsidering the dates for her trip to Indonesia.

Police mum on details of suspects connected to Yangon blasts

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 12:32 AM PST

Police have reportedly arrested suspects linked to a series of explosions in Yangon this month, but law enforcement officials remain tight-lipped about the number of detainees and their profiles.

Amid party infighting, NLD launches team to investigate complaints

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 12:29 AM PST

Following complaints lodged about party members in Taninthar­yi Region and Mon State, the National League for Democracy has established a three-member team to investigate.

Citing ‘general crisis’, parties urge powerful security council meeting

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 11:14 PM PST

Thirteen registered political parties have called for a meeting of the powerful National Defence and Security Council to address a "general crisis" facing the country on multiple fronts.

Hundreds of Shan farmers protest Upper Yeywa dam

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 11:08 PM PST

More than 1500 farmers from 19 townships gathered on the banks of the Namtu River in Thibaw/Hsipaw township, Shan State to call for the cancellation of the Upper Yeywa dam on November 27. It was the third such protest of 2016.

Bangladesh turns back refugee boats

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 11:05 PM PST

Bangladesh border guards admitted to turning back multiple boats packed with refugees fleeing violence in northern Rakhine State yesterday, despite appeals by the country's opposition to provide shelter to the Muslim minority.

Minister for social welfare wants harsher penalties for rape

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 11:02 PM PST

If Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Minister U Win Myat Aye gets his way, anyone who is convicted of raping a minor could face life in prison, up from the current maximum sentence of 20 years, he announced yesterday.

U Aye Maung tapped as ANP candidate to contest by-election Rakhine race

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 10:55 PM PST

Arakan National Party chair U Aye Maung has been selected to represent the party in an Ann township, Rakhine State, by-election race next year, according to U Tun Aung Kyaw, ANP general secretary.

Shady agencies stripped of licences

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 10:53 PM PST

Eighteen employment agencies tasked with finding jobs for workers in other countries were stripped of their licenses for a slew of offences, including working with illegal brokers, Union Minister for Labour, Immigration, and Population U Thein Swe told the Amyotha Hluttaw yesterday.

Parliamentary committee roles rescinded for lawmakers in NLD doghouse

Posted: 28 Nov 2016 10:52 PM PST

Three National League for Democracy lawmakers who were stripped of their party leadership posts last week have also been dismissed from the parliamentary committee seats they had held.

Shan Herald Agency for News

Shan Herald Agency for News


Hundreds protest dam on Namtu River

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 05:18 AM PST

More than 1,500 people staged a protest on Sunday in northern Shan State's Hsipaw Township, demanding a halt to plans for a hydropower dam project.

Photo by SHRF- people stage a protest near Namtu River
in Hsipaw Township on November 27.
Protestors included community activists, members of youth groups, women and politicians, many of whom came from all corners of Shan State to gather at Ta Long village, where the Upper Yeywa Dam project is slated to be built.

According to Sai Thum Ai, a spokesperson for the Shan State Farmers' Network (SSFN), the new hydropower projects – the Upper Yeywa being one of four proposed to be constructed in northern Shan State – will offer no benefits to the public, but will only create problems.

"The companies plan to finish building the Upper Yeywa Dam by 2018," he said. "By that time, Ta Long village will be under water."
The proposed dam will create a 60-kilometer-long reservoir and flood up to the town of Hsipaw, submerging villages and lands. About 650 villagers live in Ta Long, an agricultural community renowned for its organic oranges, according to the statement released on November 27.
The dam is due to be built by: China's Zhejiang Orient Engineering Co: the Yunnan Machinery Import and Export Co; Lahmeyer International GmbH of Germany; Swiss company Stucky SA; and a Japanese conglomerate called Toshiba Hydro Power (Hangzhou) Co Ltd.
"The dam site and planned reservoir lie in an area of active conflict, where the Burma Army has been launching offensives in the past few months against ethnic resistance forces and committing grave human rights violations, including the torture and killing of civilians," reads the statement. "On October 23, over 2,000 villagers fled from their homes after a Burma Army attack only 20 kilometers east of Ta Long. The recent escalation of fighting in northern Shan State during the past week has caused more IDPs to flee to Namtu."
On June 3, Shan Herald reported that Burmese armed forces tortured and killed villagers near the Yeywa dam site.
Environmentalist Sai Thum Ai said that after the 2010 election, investment increased in Shan State, but more people are struggling. Many civilians' lands have been confiscated, he said, while conflict is breaking out all across Shan State.

"They [the NLD government] did not solve our problems. On the other hand, they have created more problems for people. If they build more dams, more people will suffer," he said.  

"We urge the Shan State government and Union government to stop creating new [dam] projects. The current projects should provide equality benefits for local people," he said. "We also urge the government to bring about an immediate end to the fighting in northern Shan State."

The SSFN also urged foreign firms involved in the Upper Yeywa Dam to pull out immediately from this controversial project, saying they are complicit in the Burmese army's abusive military operations to secure the area. In particular, the farmers group said, Stucky SA should withdraw, given Switzerland's proclaimed role as a "peace-builder" in Burma.

By Shan Herald Agency for News (SHAN)


Police shoot motorcyclist at checkpoint in Muse

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 01:44 AM PST

A man was shot and wounded by police in Muse, northern Shan State, on Monday evening after allegedly running a checkpoint on his motorcycle, according to a local source, speaking to Shan Herald on condition of anonymity.


He identified the man as Aye Chan Ko Ko, a worker at the Kanbawza Bank in Muse.

"He was shot while he riding his motorbike at around 7.30pm," said the source. "He got hit in his right hand and right leg. His hand was seriously wounded.

"I heard that he was shot because he did kept going when the police ordered him to stop," the same source added. "He was taken to a hospital in Shweli [on the Chinese border]."

Last night, three bombs reportedly exploded in Muse, according to a local resident who requested anonymity on the grounds of safety. One targeted a police station.

Following intensified fighting between Burmese armed forces and an alliance of ethnic armed groups – the Arakan Army (AA), Kachin Independence Army (KIA), Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), and Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), who have recently begun calling themselves the "Northern Alliance" – security has been tightened in Muse Township with police officers stationed across the breadth of the city.

On November 25, Shan Herald reported that some townships in the area, including Muse, Hsenwi and Namkham, had cancelled Shan New Year celebrations, which were scheduled for this week.

Due to the recent hostilities, thousands of civilians from the Muse area have fled their homes, with more than 3,000 seeking refuge across the border in China. Some have returned to their homes in recent days, but the overall atmosphere in the city is described as quiet and tense.


By Shan Herald Agency for News (SHAN)



To Hopeland and Back: The 23rd trip

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 01:35 AM PST

Day Ten. Monday, 14 November 2016

Definition of Lese-Majeste

a.      A crime (as treason) committed against a sovereign power
b.      An offense violating the dignity of a ruler as the representative of a sovereign power
Merriam-Webster Dictionary

Myo Yan Naung Thein, arrested on section 66d charge.
There is nothing much to say about who I meet and what is discussed today.
I spend most of the time listening to friends talking about Section 66d of the Telecommunications Law which was created in 2013.

During the previous government's tenure, I'm told, 7 were charged and 5 sentenced to prison. Now that the democratic party has been elected and has been government for 7 months, 29 people have been charged. "It must be sort of a lese majeste law as in Thailand," says one. "Some of our leaders have become really untouchables."

My answer is that I have nothing to complain, since I'm a guest (a long-stay one at that) in the kingdom, beginning 29 November 1996, thanks to a reply from the palace to my petition. And considering my present assets, it'll take a long, long time before I have enough to buy a house in my homeland.

A deeper truth might be what I had already quoted 3 years ago from one of Neil Diamond's song:
L.A.'s fine but it ain't home
New York's home, but it ain't mine no more


Today, I'm lucky at the check-in counter. It takes only 10 minutes for the airline official to fix me a boarding ticket. At 15:00 Thai time, I'm back in the home away from home.

To Hopeland and Back: The 23rd trip

Posted: 29 Nov 2016 01:31 AM PST

Day Nine. Sunday, 13 November 2016

He did not hate them, for he had been taught to expect nothing better, and they were acting as he expected people to act.
Flint, by Louis L'Amour

Today I'm meeting another group of friends. What's different from yesterday's is that they are foreigners coming from afar (they have requested not to mention where they are from) to learn how the peace process in Burma is doing. Maybe some of our experiences will be applicable to their country's situation, while others will not.

Thus far the 7th round in 2016, the PowerPoint presentation that I have been continuously editing and updating: Understanding the Peace Process in Burma/Myanmar, is delivered to them.

So what's so striking about this event I may be asked. The answer is that they ask a lot of good questions.

(Photo: SHRF)
Here are some of them and our answers:

Q. I have scanned through the 2008 constitution. From the federalism point of view, it seems to be okay. So what's wrong about it?

A. Its federal inform, but unitary in substance.

Q. Has the cost of war been taken statistically?

A. No. At least I haven't seen any that has taken into account all the losses that the country has sustained since 1948. But during the three years, from the beginning of 1996 toward the end of 1998, a forced relocation campaign was launched in Shan State by the government forces against the RCSS/SSA (now a signatory of the NCA). According to a human rights report, 300,000 people in 1,500 village in 11 townships, were forcibly relocated. Hundreds were killed, including women, many of whom after sexually abused. About a million of Shans are now in Thailand, at least half of them because of war.

Q. Burma getting poorer, why?

A. Because of continuous war, disastrous economic polities during the socialist era (1962-1988) and now the inability of the West to come to the rescue, after the country opened its doors to them 5 years ago.

Q. What are the significances of the current peace process, and its problems?

A. Significances

1. For the first time, the Burmese government is trying to resolve political problems by political means
2. For the first time, ethnic issues became mainstream (it may have started to change now)
3. For the first time, the international community that used to treat ethnic movements as terrorists, is saying their demands are legitimate (liable to change if not handled properly)

Problems with the EAOs

1.      No shared vision
2.      Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has become so "high," the EAOs are no longer equal, as they were during the previous government
3.      Her priority appears to be reconciliation with the military. And the military looks to ethnic issues, putting it politely, as security issues
4.      Since Daw Aung San Suu Kyi is elected by the people, they have to be being seen as going against the people

Q. What are the differences in outlooks?

A. The military considers this country came into being since ancient times. The EAOs say it came into being as the result of the 1947 Panglong Agreement.

Q. Do you think the Burmese people, who form the majority population,  will support Federalism?

A. They elected Daw AungSan Suu Kyi, so if she says okay to Federalism, you can be rest assured about their support. It means the EAOs must try to achieve what they want to, while she's still there. (Also, one suggests later that if federalism is applied not only to non-Burman states, but also Burman regions, with their different resources and interests, it is likely they will support federalism.)
Note Many of the answers were given by my colleagues.

In the evening, I visit my two former teachers: Sai Aung Tun and Nang Noom, both of whom are now 84. One of the topics we discuss is about the Guardian Spirits of the Shans, both of whom fervently believe in, like most members of the Tai Dai family, which includes Shan, Zhuang (China) Leu, Kheun (Burma) Tai Dam, Tai Khao, Tai Daeng (Vietnam) Ahom (India) Lao (Laos) and Thai (Thailand).

"Like Greek gods, the zao-mong's power is enhanced, when there are people who venerate them," he says. His wife, Nang Noom, who taught me English when I was a kid, is a known medium.

On my way back, I think about these gods, and also, inevitably, the Creator God.

Many Shans don't know they, like Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Christians, used to believe in a Creator God.

According to an Ahom manuscript, translated by Oliver Raendchen, a German anthropologist:
In the beginning, the world was void and surrounded by the water of the ocean. There was only one omnipotent being, the great God. A long time passed. And then God created a deity known as Khuntheukham from his breast. Both the great beings talked together and Khuntheukham dived down to the waters below floating there with his face upward.

A lotus plant was issued forth from his navel. Then a pair of large gold-tinted spiders were created. The spiders, as they floated in the sky, let fall their droppings, out of which the earth arose.

Then God created a goddess as His wife.
(From Shan and beyond, Chulalongkorn University)

The translation ends here. But another manuscript, also Ahom, spoke of deities (who became, what else, Shans) coming down by iron ladders to earth where they multiplied.

Perhaps I too could have become a believer if I were brought up by this story when I was still at an impressionable age. Who can tell?