KNU wants a transparent peace process

Following ceasefire talks with the Burma Government last week in Pa-an the Karen National Union issued a statement today to make clear their commitment to the peace process.

The KNU, 19-member delegation, met with Railways Minister, U Aung Min, and representatives of the Burmese government on Thursday last week. The KNU statement explained that the two parties had agreed in principle to a ceasefire.

“The KNU delegation reached an initial agreement with the Burmese government’s representatives towards a ceasefire agreement. When the delegation returns to our headquarters, the KNU leadership will discuss about subsequent steps required in this dialogue with the Burmese government.”

The KNU also presented at the meeting its 11 point proposal that the KNU says the Burma government delegation agreed in principle to.

“The KNU leadership will take further steps to continue concrete discussions on how the terms and conditions of the proposal will be materialized on the ground, in detail, before both sides can agree on the final ceasefire agreement.”

The full list of the Karen National Union 11-point proposal is printed below.

1. Establish a nationwide ceasefire and immediately cease military operations in ethnic areas.

2. Guarantee the human rights and safety of all civilians.

3. Build trust among the people.

4. Support the basic needs of the people and ensure that development projects have the full participation and support of local villagers.

5. Allow national media outlets to participate in the peace processes, in order to provide accurate information about developments.

6. Immediately stop forced labor, arbitrary taxation and extortion of villagers.

7. Release all political prisoners and provide solutions to settle land rights issue.

8. Set out principles for all parties to ensure a genuine peace process.

9. Ensure the legitimacy of representatives involved in negotiations, provide adequate time for their consultation with respective constituencies and establish a clear role for third parties.

10. Initiate a plan for monitoring and ensuring the transparency of the peace process.

11. Establish a flexible process that guarantees progress towards sustainable peace, and in which all parties speak straightforwardly and avoid using words that may be misinterpreted.