July 1, 2024

On June 30, the monks in Dawei Township, Tanintharyi Region, participated in the Patthana Nikkujjana protest, bringing the total number of participating townships to 13. The monks took to the streets, holding banners stating “We do not need the terrorist military that is destroying the country and the religion,” and were supported by the local population.

On the same day, the monks in Sarlingyi Township, Sagaing Region, also conducted the Patthana Nikkujjana protest and marched with a large number of participants. This movement was initiated in response to the killing of the revered monk from the Win Nimmita Monastery in Bago by the military junta.

The Patthana Nikkujjana protest began in Chaung-U Township, Sagaing Region, on June 23 and has since spread to 13 townships. The participating townships now include Chaung-U, Depayin, Sarlingyi, Taze, Sagaing, Monywa, Wetlet, Ayadaw, Budalin, and Yinmabin in Sagaing Region; Myingyan and Pakokku in Magway Region; and Dawei in Tanintharyi Region.

The monks leading the protest in Chaung-U have expressed hope that monks from all over the country will join the movement in solidarity. This protest has gained momentum as a response to the continued violence and oppression by the military junta, particularly against religious figures and institutions.