29-1-2024 (MANILA) United Nations rights envoy Tom Andrews highlighted the weakening state of Myanmar’s military junta on Monday (Jan 29), noting a decline in its strength over the past few months. However, he expressed grave concern over the immediate impact of this decline on the people of Myanmar.
Andrews pointed out that the junta has experienced significant setbacks since October, with over 4,000 soldiers surrendering or defecting. Additionally, the military has lost control of territory and weaponry, including substantial artillery. Despite these setbacks, Andrews emphasized that the junta’s response has been to intensify attacks on villages, using sophisticated and powerful weapons.
While the weakening of the junta offers hope for the long term, Andrews described the current situation as a “disaster on top of a disaster” for the people of Myanmar. Since the coup nearly three years ago, the country has witnessed the displacement of 2.3 million people and a staggering 18.6 million in urgent need of humanitarian aid. Tragically, over 10,000 Myanmar children succumbed to acute malnutrition last year alone.
Addressing Myanmar’s participation in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers’ meeting, Andrews highlighted the junta’s unreliable nature. He pointed out the junta’s history of reneging on agreements, making it challenging to trust any commitments made during diplomatic engagements.
Regarding the state of emergency in Myanmar, set to expire on Wednesday, Andrews expressed scepticism about another extension. He argued that prolonging the state of emergency would only serve the junta’s interests in avoiding promised elections and perpetuating instability.
Andrews underscored the need for coordinated international efforts to weaken the junta’s hold on power. He noted a decline in the junta’s access to weapons and resources due to increasing international pressure. However, he stressed the importance of sustained efforts to cut off the flow of support to the military regime and support the aspirations of the Myanmar people for justice and human rights.
Andrews reiterated the critical role of the international community in standing with the people of Myanmar and working towards a future free from the junta’s tyranny and oppression.
