Investigative Commission formed for damage accountability

By Khaing Roe La 20 Mar 2019

Khaing Roe La/DMG

March 20, Sittwe

The Arakan National Party (ANP) formed an investigative commission on Wednesday to collect documented evidence and other relevant information relating to civilian casualties and destruction of historical buildings during the armed conflicts between the Tatmadaw and AA and to submit documents to the State Counsellor, Commander-in-Chief, Human Rights Commission and other related organizations.

The nine-member commission was formed with Daw Aye Nu Sein (vice chair of the ANP), U Tun Aung Kyaw (General Secretary), U Oo Hla Saw and other members.

Daw Aye Nu Sein said the intention of forming the commission is to be able to furnish accurate and verifiable information concerning civilian casualties and destroyed property that took place during the time the Tatmadaw were launching attacks in Mrauk-U town because the news and information from the Tatmadaw and some media outlets about casualty reports is incorrect and unsubstantiated.

“They (Tatmadaw, media) published that the AA caused damage and created casualties. The AA side denied these accusations. People know the real truth,” she said.

The commission will compile a report within seven days to submit to the central executive committee.  Members of the commission are going to collect accurate and verifiable information in Buthidaung, Ponnagyun and Kyauktaw Townships.

Ko Zaw Win, an activist in Kyauktaw town, said that committees previously formed by the government and political parties were found to be weak in their performance, and he would closely scrutinize the actions of the new commission. 

“I welcome the commission although the union government has formed a committee. I will have to wait and see if it can really work for people. I’d like it to work to meet the requirements of people,” he said.

Local residents said that locals sustained injury and ancient religious buildings were destroyed because of the attack of the Tatmadaw in Mrauk-U.

However, the Tatmadaw side responded that it did counter attack to return the AA’s fire from some places in ancient pagoda and houses.