The Independent Press Council of Myanmar (IPCM) issued a statement on 14 September calling on the military council to grant journalists free access to report from areas affected by natural disasters in Myanmar’s states and regions.
The press council stated that allowing journalists to freely gather and transmit information about what is actually happening on the ground during and after flood-related dangers could improve rescue efforts and reduce loss of life and property damage.
U Toe Zaw Latt, Secretary of IPCM, said, “Right now, we don’t know what’s really happening on the ground. There are many sensitive areas like Karen and Karenni States. Also, communication has been cut off in some areas due to military operations. If we know the real situation on the ground, we can save many lives.”
The IPCM urged the junta not to cut off communications in disaster-affected areas as this would prevent people in life-threatening situations from calling for help, leading to loss of life and suffering.
“If journalists are present in these sensitive areas and if there are proper communication channels, many lives can be saved. That’s why we’re calling for both access for journalists and the necessary rescue efforts,” added U Toe Zaw Latt.
The IPCM also called on the junta to stop revoking media licenses, raiding journalists’ homes, and arresting them, actions which have forced many media outlets to leave the country and prevented them from reporting in times like these. The press council therefore demanded the immediate release of detained journalists.
Currently, people in Mandalay, Bago, Naypyidaw, Mon, Karen, Karenni (Kayah), and Shan are facing flood disasters. IPCM stated that the lack of early warnings and preparedness in these regions has led to increased loss of life and property among the public.
On the ground, not only is the military council’s warning system weak, but there have been no significant rescue efforts for flood victims to date. In some areas, checkpoints and restrictions are hampering rescue operations, according to local volunteers and some civil society organizations.
Sent by KIC.