The Karenni State Interim Executive Council stated on 16 June that clashes with military junta forces advancing into Moebye Township and the eastern part of Pekon Township have displaced around 40,000 local residents, who are now facing numerous basic needs.
Since early June, a joint force of the military council and the Pa-O National Organization (PNO) have launched a large-scale offensive from Moebye and the eastern bank of Pekon Township, advancing toward Loikaw and Demoso Townships.
This has led to ongoing clashes and has forced many local residents to flee their homes.
IEC Secretary (2) U Banyar stated that although civil society organizations have provided support, significant needs still remain.
“At present, some civil society organizations based here are collaborating with IEC’s Department of Humanitarian and Rehabilitation to provide assistance. That includes the township administrative bodies and local committees as well. The needs will certainly continue to exist. And there are many townships. It’s more difficult because they have to relocate during the rainy season,” said U Banyar.
He added that alongside the offensive, artillery fire and airstrikes by the junta have caused civilian casualties.
The IEC statement calls on the international community to acknowledge the hardships faced by civilians affected by the conflict and to respond with increased humanitarian support, strengthening efforts to ensure the safety and food security of the population.
The IEC statement reports that the monthly food requirement for a population of approximately 40,000 exceeds USD 450,000.
The IEC statement said that currently, 7,000 households—around 40,000 people—in five village tracts on the eastern bank of Moebye Township and Pekon Township are affected by armed conflict.
Sent by Kantarawaddy Times