An interview with Lt-Col Oum Khur, Spokesperson of the RCSS.
The Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS) which is an ethnic armed group, held a biannual meeting at its headquarters in Loi Tai Leng from 18 to 20 August. After that meeting, the RCSS issued a five-point statement regarding the current political issue, including the stance of the RCSS.
The Than Lwin Times interviewed Lt-Col Oum Khur, Spokesperson of the RCSS about the RCSS’s stance, the future processes and the stance towards the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA).
Q: What was discussed about the current political issue at a three-day biannual meeting of the RCSS?
A: The meeting did not discuss that issue. Members expressed their views at a biannual meeting that the political dialogue is the best answer.
Q: What is the RCSS’s attitude towards the Karen National Union’s view that the NCA is void?
A: The next process runs as usual. The main thing is that we will continue on the path of peace.
Q: The NCA explicitly mandates the protection of civilians. Now there is a concern about civilian casualties. So, is there still compliance with the NCA? May I know your view on it?
A: Opinions can be included from all sides. We have a view that we will help as much as we can by working together with each other.
Q: Does the RCSS have a plan to continue discussions with the military council?
A: That does not mean the organizations that are not the signatories to the NCA. The best answer is dialogue as we have signed the NCA. That’s why the NCA includes these attitudes. That’s why we can’t say that the NCA is void yet.
Q: What is the RCSS’s view on the current political issue? Please discuss the possible situation.
A: As stated in the NCA, regardless of the complexity of the politics, each side should not use arms. One group should attack another group. No matter what the issue is, we must try to meet and discuss and finally protect the public. We have accepted that we are not fully satisfied yet. We will have to keep trying. In my view, the dialogue is the best answer. I have accepted the fact that if there is something worth discussing, it must be discussed. In terms of political methods, meeting and discussion at the national level is the best way and it will happen as I said. In my view, seeking the solution to the problem through armed struggle has led to the escalation of civil war.
In my view, negotiating without the use of arms is the best means. We are saddened that the damage has become more extensive nationwide. We do not encourage the use of arms to find a solution. We believe that the only way to find a solution is to discuss it as much as possible. The use of arms may lead to the escalation of civil war. The country will see more and more deaths. That’s why we don’t give more priority to using the arms.
Q: Finally, what would you like to add?
A: As a group, no matter what the political situation is, the main thing is to focus on the people and not to let the people suffer. I would like to say that the main thing is negotiation and discussion.
Sent by Than Lwin Times