Displaced people, locals, and members of some resistance groups report concerns that the newly appeared KTV bars in the liberated area of Cherry Kone in Demoso Township, Karenni (Kayah) State could damage the image of the revolution.
These KTVs are causing issues such as loud noises until midnight, generator sounds disrupting sleep, and noise levels that could mask early warning signals for aerial attacks, which are seen as damaging to the revolution’s image.
In addition, displaced people report nightly sleep disruptions due to the loud KTV sounds.
A person taking refuge in Cherry Kone said: “People could question whether those fighting in the revolution are getting too comfortable with money. Did they come here just to relax? Also, this could lead to misunderstandings both among resistance fighters and civilians.”
After Operation 1111 in Karenni State in July, approximately four KTV bars were opened between residential areas and IDP camps in Demoso Township, according to the source.
Local residents and resistance members say that resistance members frequently visit these KTVs for recreation and social gatherings.
A Karenni resistance fighter commented: “The junta troops are all over these areas. We had to fight to retake these areas. With these KTVs popping up, we have to question whether we fought for these areas just to run these KTVs. I truly feel sad for fallen comrades.”
Local administrators say these KTVs are being opened with approval from the resistance forces.
The Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC) is reportedly monitoring these KTV bars.
IEC Secretary-2 Banya said: “From the start of the people’s revolution in February 2021 until today, there has been no official authorization for KTVs in Karenni State.”
Although the IEC directed the closure of non-compliant KTVs in October, locals report they reopened in November.
“From the noise issues to potential threats to community security and the revolution’s image, these cannot be tolerated. We will address this legally and socially,” he added.
Locals report around 10 KTV bars now operating in Cherry Kone, which is more than the number previously existing in Loikaw before the military coup.
The resistance forces are also facing criticism on social media due to their frequent KTV visits.
Sent by NMG.
