The Japan-based peace group Hands of Peace, made up of Myanmar nationals living in Japan, has called on both the military and ethnic armed organizations to stop fighting and work toward peace in Myanmar in the new year.
The call was made during a protest held on January 1 in Osaka, Japan, where the group directed its demands at both the Myanmar military junta and various revolutionary armed groups.
In its demands to the military regime, Hands of Peace urged the immediate release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and all political prisoners, an immediate ceasefire, and a halt to airstrikes, bombings, and counteroffensive military operations. The group also called on the junta to invite all armed organizations to inclusive peace talks and to suspend implementation of the Myitsone Dam project, which continues to raise public concern.
On the other side, the group called on revolutionary forces and ethnic armed organizations to declare a ceasefire and stop offensives aimed at capturing towns and military camps. It also urged an end to forced recruitment by some resistance groups, cooperation toward initiating peace negotiations, prioritization of a ceasefire over political agreements, and the holding of peace talks among all revolutionary groups to help stabilize the country.
In its statement, Hands of Peace emphasized that its appeal does not favor either side but is aimed at protecting the lives, homes, livelihoods, and future of the people. The group urged all parties to take steps toward a nationwide ceasefire and peace process that would bring the greatest benefit to the public.
Photo: Hands of Peace
