Domestic News Updates – December 21, 2024 Morning
๐๐ 1. Interim Regional Administrative Implementation Central Committee Meeting Led by Prime Minister Mahn Win Khaing Than
Date: December 20
The National Unity Government (NUG) held the 46th Central Committee Meeting for Interim Regional Administrative Implementation on December 19. The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Mahn Win Khaing Than, who also serves as the Chairperson of the committee. He delivered the opening remarks to commence the session.
During the meeting, committee members reviewed the progress of tasks outlined in the 45th meeting and presented updates on pending actions that need further implementation. Officials from various ministries also provided extensive discussions on their respective administrative activities.
Attendees included Prime Minister Mahn Win Khaing Than, Union Ministers, Deputy Union Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, Deputy Permanent Secretaries, and other relevant officials from different departments.
========================
๐๐ 2. Dr. Zaw Wai Soe: Necessary Supplies Provided to Frontline Hospitals for Treating Victims of Junta’s Chemical Attacks
Date: December 20
At a joint press briefing held by the National Unity Government (NUG) and the Karenni Interim Executive Council (IEC) on the topic of "Chemical Weapon Attacks by the Military Junta in Karenni State," Union Minister Dr. Zaw Wai Soe stated the following:
"In terms of treatment, it’s not just about chemical weapons. We have 82 hospitals and clinics positioned strategically near conflict zones for swift access. Additionally, pre-existing hospitals in ethnic areas are categorized into three tiers: Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3. Tier 1 hospitals are closest to the conflict zones and are equipped with the necessary materials for treating chemical weapon victims. Despite financial challenges, we’ve managed to supply essential items. For example, oxygen therapy is available. Since the start of the revolution, we’ve faced the third wave of COVID-19, which helped us build capabilities in respiratory care. We have distributed required equipment to frontline hospitals and clinics."
Reports confirm that the junta’s Light Infantry Battalion 422 used drones to disperse S-PHOS 560 chemical tablets in Moebye Township of Karenni State during December. These attacks resulted in symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, fatigue, and nausea among some Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF) members, who subsequently received medical treatment.
The chemical weapon, identified as a product of Singapore and imported through the Wisar Company, is typically used in agriculture to prevent crop pests. When released into the air, it can harm the heart, kidneys, lungs, and nervous system and, in high concentrations, can be fatal, according to Dr. Alex from Karenni State.
========================
๐๐ 3. Junta’s Use of Chemical Weapons Violates CWC and Constitutes War Crimes, Says Union Minister U Aung Myo Min
Date: December 20
During the same joint press briefing by the NUG and the Karenni Interim Executive Council, Union Minister U Aung Myo Min stated:
"The military junta is not limiting the use of chemical weapons to Karenni State; such acts are occurring across Myanmar. This is not only an international crime but also a violation of international treaties and conventions. The use of chemical agents as weapons in Myanmar is comparable to their deployment in countries like Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Globally, 190 nations have signed the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) to ban such practices, and Myanmar signed the treaty in 2015. This recent use of chemical weapons is a direct and blatant violation of the CWC, making it Myanmar’s first documented breach of this international agreement."
From December 7 to 8, the junta’s Light Infantry Battalion 422, stationed near Moebye, conducted drone strikes on Moebye and its surroundings, deploying chemical-laden S-PHOS 560 tablets. Upon detonation, the tablets released thick smoke, causing symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, lethargy, and loss of energy among individuals nearby.
Reports indicate that the drones carried out seven attacks near military zones, inadvertently exposing junta soldiers to the toxic gas as well. Some soldiers reportedly experienced health issues following the attacks, according to CDM defector Wayan Htun.
========================
๐๐ 4. Singapore’s Foreign Minister calls for the immediate release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi during Myanmar discussions in Bangkok
December 20
Singapore's Foreign Minister, Vivian Balakrishnan, stated via social media on December 20 that he had called for the immediate release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi during discussions on Myanmar in Bangkok.
"Nearly four years after the military coup, the situation in Myanmar remains dire. The ongoing conflicts in the country continue to cause immense suffering and challenges. ASEAN foreign ministers convened in Bangkok to engage in open discussions about Myanmar. Our primary focus remains on peace, stability, and progress for the people of Myanmar. We reiterated our commitment to the Five-Point Consensus, which the Myanmar military authorities must respect and adhere to.
Notably, we called for the immediate cessation of violence against civilians and for constructive dialogue among Myanmar’s key stakeholders to achieve lasting peace. This includes urging for the swift release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who plays a critical role in Myanmar’s reconciliation process," the Foreign Minister said.
========================
๐๐ 5. Training center being planned for comrades injured in Bago’s Sit-Taung River battles
December 20
A training center is being planned for comrades who sustained injuries in the battles at the Sit-Taung River in Bago, according to Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Shwe Phone, who announced this on December 20 via social media.
"We’re considering creating a small learning center for comrades who suffered limb injuries during the Sit-Taung River battles. Special thanks to Ko Myint Swe and Ko Htun Htun Oo, who initially donated three laptops to support the project," he said.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defense continues to honor fallen comrades who sacrificed their lives while resisting the oppressive military forces by issuing certificates of recognition and providing financial support to their surviving families.
========================
๐๐ 6. Military junta pressures residents in Maezali Kone Town to form neighborhood security teams
December 20
Residents in Maezali Kone Town, located in Ingapu Township, Hinthada District, Ayeyarwady Region, report that the military junta is pressuring individuals over the age of 35 to form neighborhood security teams.
Following attacks by the Arakan Army near the Ayeyarwady border, local administrative authorities held a meeting at 1 PM on December 18 at Battalion Aung Kan Hall, where they summoned residents from Wards 1, 2, 3, and 4 to recruit 50 members for the security teams. Members are expected to undergo a two-week unarmed training program, for which they will receive a daily allowance of 6,800 kyats, according to the Pathein Special News Unit.
After completing the training, members will be provided light blue uniforms and tasked with verifying visitor lists, securing travel routes for military council officials, and responding to emergencies. Identification cards and serial numbers will also be issued.
Additionally, residents report being forced to monitor their neighborhoods for strangers, notify local authorities if they receive visitors, and ensure compliance with the imposed regulations.
Such actions by the military junta, requiring urban residents to form neighborhood security teams, are raising concerns among locals who view this as turning unarmed civilians into sacrificial militia.
In some townships of Ayeyarwady Region, including Maezali Kone Town, curfews have been imposed, restricting movement from 6 PM to 6 AM. In Pathein, the regional capital, warnings have been issued prohibiting outdoor activities after 8 PM, reportedly due to escalating military tensions near Gwa Township in Rakhine State.
The above reports were submitted by Radio NUG correspondents Min Thihan and Ko Khant.
#SpringRevolution
No comments:
Post a Comment