July 21, 2024

The monk of Win Nimmita Monastery in Bago, Dr. Ashin Panyissara, has stated that the death of Venerable Win Nimmita during the period of military rule and ongoing conflicts is a significant loss, likening it to the turbulent times of past regimes.

Expressing deep sorrow and regret, Dr. Ashin Panyissara mentioned that Venerable Win Nimmita, aged 78, with 50 years in monkhood, was shot and killed by the junta troops on June 19, 2024, in Ngazun Township, Mandalay Region.

The junta, however, has claimed that the monk’s death was due to an attack by the People’s Defense Forces (PDF), a statement contradicted by eyewitnesses, including Kan Thone Sint Sayadaw, who was present during the incident. He confirmed that the monk was indeed killed by junta forces. Following this incident, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing directed the Bago Regional Government to apologize to the relevant monks on his behalf.

Kan Thone Sint Sayadaw, originally from Ngazun Township, narrated that while traveling to Pan Chikamma Village, the monks were targeted by junta troops who opened fire on their vehicle.

The incident has led to significant criticism of Sitagu Sayadaw, who urged the monks to forgive and move past the tragic event. This call for forgiveness has been met with public backlash, considering the gravity of the situation.

In response to the killing of Venerable Win Nimmita, over 20 townships’ monks have engaged in a Pattanikkuzhana protest, condemning the junta’s actions.

The National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC) has called on the public to support the monks’ protests and resist the junta’s oppressive measures through various forms of civil disobedience and demonstrations.