Announcement No (1/2009) of Government of the Union of Myanmar

The Government of the Union of Myanmar today issued Announcement No (1/2009) dated 30 August 2009. The translation of the announcement is as follows:-

Government of the Union of Myanmar
Announcement No (1/2009)
11th Waxing of Tawthalin 1371 ME
(30 August 2009)

1. Shan State (North) Special Region (1) Kokang Group returned to the legal fold on 21 March 1989. Since then, it has been working together with the government for restoration of peace and stability and regional development. As a result, Kokang Region has developed far more than that in the past and the people are much pleased with it. The government recognizes the group's cooperation with it.

2. However, four leaders of Special Region (1) U Phon Kya Shin, U Phon Kya Phu, U Phon Tar Shwin and U Phon Tarli violated the laws promulgated by the government. They have been summoned since 8 August 2009 for coordination to figure out the issue in accordance with the law. Nevertheless, they fled Kokang Region instead of addressing the issue.

3. In addition, there was no progress in addressing the issue through coordination in which Kokang troops loyal to U Phon Kya Shin on 27 August 2009 captured and took the members of the Myanmar Police Force who were discharging duties at Yanlonkeng in Myanmar-China border gate. Accordingly, arrangements were made to save the captured policemen. In that regard, Kokang troops opened fire at the security forces of the State. So, the security forces had to launch counter attacks for their security and that of the captured members. The skirmishes ceased on 29 August 2009.

4. Now, peace has been restored, and tasks for restoration of regional peace, stability and development have returned to normal. The provisional leading committee formed by Special Region (1) Kokang Group is cooperating and undertaking the tasks under the leadership of the government.

5. The law violation in Kokang Region does not concern any other person except the four persons. The government understands well that the artless troops who had to open fire did not violate the law because they had to just follow the orders. The government hereby announces that those artless Kokang troops who followed the orders are allowed to enter the legal fold in safety, and they are therefore to contact Kokang Region provisional leading committee in Laukkai to return to the legal fold.

By order,
(Sd) Thant Shin
Colonel
Secretary
Government of the Union of Myanmar

Source: The New Light of Myanmar (30-8-2009)