Kachin Peace Network held service for the one-year anniversary of Kachin conflict

JUNE 9. RANGOON, KACHIN PEACE NETWORK SERVICE FOR THE ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF KACHIN CONFLICT.

The Kachin Peace Network (KPN) organized a prayer service at Doh Yoe Yar restaurant in Rangoon. During the service salted rice was distributed as a reminder of the thousands of IDPs in Kachin State.


The event, held on June 9, was timed to coincide with the one-year anniversary since the conflict started between the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and Burmese army.

“We distribute salted rice to create awareness what IDPs eat,” said Mrs. Nang Pu.

One person who attended the event said on the way to the restaurant organizers had placed ragged and torn clothing to symbolize what IDPs have to wear.

“We had to walk pass by the clothing. Some of the participants didn’t know much about the situation inside Kachin State until after they saw photos (shown at the service). When they saw the photos they became more interested,” he said.

During the event, four leaders from different religions led the prayer service. 

Min Ko Naing, a ‘88 generation student leader gave a speech about why the conflict started. He also talked about the Panglong agreement and how it could lead to peace.

Sayama Hkawn Ja talked about the difficulties the IDPs and refugees face and ways support them.

The Kachin musical group 'Rau' and other musicians entertained an audience of approximately 1,000 people made up of Christians, Buddhists, Islamists and ‘88 generation student leaders from 100 organizations.

The KPN was founded by 20 Kachin youth on May 2.  The group was formed to let Burmese and international community knows what’s happening inside Kachin State, according to Mrs. Nang Pu.