Aljazeera: The recent rape and murder of two volunteer teachers – Maran Lu Ra and Tangbau Hkwn Nan Tsin – in Myanmar’s northern Shan State prompted condemnation from across the world. Demands for justice and accountability have been swift, and pointed.
The government of Myanmar’s response to these demands has been to initiate an investigation headed by the Minister for Home Affairs – an appointed representative of the institution standing accused of committing the crime. The message is clear; for all the talk of reform, the Myanmar army remains beyond reproach.
On January 29, the Tatmadaw (Myanmar army) issued a statement threatening legal action against those accusing them of responsibility for the murders. It was a stark reminder of the repression under which their critics must operate in Myanmar.
Defending human rights
The information unearthed by organisations defending human rights, strikes at the heart of the Tatmadaw’s claims to legitimacy. For this reason, it is more vital than ever that they find common ground upon which to work – and that the international community supports this process.
As noted by Human Rights Watch, the last year has seen reversals of basic freedoms and democratic progress in Myanmar. The country’s reforms have not made the lives of women and girls any safer, particularly in ethnic communities.
Categories: Asia, Bigotry, Burma, Burmese Muslims