Myanmar President Thien Sein’s peace accord, initiated by the Union Peacemaking Work Committee (UPWC) with the ethnic armed groups’ Nationwide Ceasefire Coordination Team (NCCT), is necessary and timely, given that the country’s general elections are due to be held in November. Thien Sein seeks a stable state as he paves the way for the implementation of democracy. He has gauged the importance of establishing a political accord, by settling an age-old military conflict, which would ensure an inclusive and harmonious future for Myanmar.
Democracy in Myanmar is still a thought but with this new agreement and other reforms that are being initiated, it could become a reality. Boosting trust, confidence and cooperation between the state and its people is the way forward. The agreement between the Kachin and Shan rebels was a step in that direction.
The elections will need to be transparent, free and fair without the spectre of the military hanging over the proceedings, given that they hold a quarter of the seats in parliament. Thien Sein also needs to focus his attention on the plight of the country’s minorities — the Rohingya Muslims for instance — and ensure their wellbeing. He cannot be selective in the delegation of his responsibilities.
