NDSC Meeting 1/2024: Emergency declaration period extended next 6 months

The National Defence and Security Council of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar held a meeting 1/2024 at the meeting hall of the State Administration Council Chairman’s Office in Nay Pyi Taw on January 31st.

It was attended by Pro Tem President U Myint Swe, Vice President U Henry Van Thio, Speaker of Pyithu Hluttaw U T Khun Myat, Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Soe Win, Union Minister for Defence Admiral Tin Aung San, Union Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen Yar Pyae, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe, Union Minister for Border Affairs Lt-Gen Tun Tun Naung, special invitees SAC Secretary Lt-Gen Aung Lin Dwe and Joint-Secretary Lt-Gen Ye Win Oo. In his clarification, the Senior General explained the national defence and security measures being undertakings during the extended 6 months period.

He highlighted counter-terrorism efforts in areas controlled by Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs), particularly in northern Shan State. He assured that the desires of EAOs would be addressed in accordance with the Constitution, seeking approval at the Hluttaw session. Addressing incidents in the Kokang Special Area, he emphasized the continuation of lawful undertakings based on historical and bilateral official relations.

Negotiations with Chinese officials are underway to resume border trade in Muse. The Senior General stressed that recent attacks near the border necessitated Tatmadaw operations in adherence to Rules of Engagement for Self-Defence and Rules of Engagement for Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency Operations, aiming to restore normalcy and prevent misunderstandings with neighboring countries.

Concerning Rakhine State, the Senior General expressed concern that over 48% of students were unable to pursue education in the 2023-2024 academic year due to terrorist acts and threats by the AA insurgent group. He called for collaboration from the local populace in Rakhine State to ensure peace and stability for future generations.

The Senior General underscored the significant threat posed by EAOs not loyal to the nation, stirring conflicts, while simultaneous efforts are made to build a Union based on democracy and a federal system. He also highlighted the challenges posed by drug smuggling, emphasizing its links to money laundering, illegal weapons sales, and terrorism. Historically, drug smuggling has thrived in areas with limited transportation access and minimal development, often situated far from administrative bodies.

He urged for concerted efforts to effectively combat opium cultivation, calling for collaboration among China, Myanmar, Thailand, and other international organizations. Additionally, he underscored that the State Administration Council's ultimate objective is to facilitate a free and fair multi-party democracy general election.

Emphasizing the necessity of extending the emergency declaration under Section 425 of the Constitution, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing highlighted the importance of ensuring normalcy, peace, and stability. He stressed the need to continue efforts in addressing the unusual situation the country is facing.

The attendees discussed the recommendation on the extension of next 6 months emergency declaration. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing elaborated the imperative to restore the conditions that prevailed before the events of 1st February 2021, disrupted by riots and armed conflicts.

To achieve this restoration, he underscored the necessity of conducting free and fair elections and convening Hluttaw sessions with the active participation of duly elected representatives. Following discussions, Pro Tem President U Myint Swe conveyed that, due to the ongoing unusual situation and recent developments requiring continued counter-terrorism measures, the State of Emergency is extended for an additional six months. The decision was made collectively by the members of the National Defence and Security Council.