Mon State Chief Minister U Aung Kyi Thein, appointed by the Military Council, is advocating for the revival of Zat Pwes (traditional outdoor theatre performances) in Mon State to reinvigorate the region with lively fair activities and a bustling atmosphere.
During a recent meeting with the traditional troupe community, U Aung Kyi Thein said that the revival of Zat Pwe performances in all ten townships would serve as, “ a testament to the peaceful and tranquil conditions prevailing in Mon State.”
The Chief Minister conveyed that Zat Pwe can be reintroduced not only at pagoda festivals, but also at community commemorative events in various townships.
The Chief Minister wants to project a lively and bustling Mon State, while at the same claiming its current state as peaceful and tranquil. He expressed his goal to promote development and prosperity in Mon State, with a strong focus on bringing back Zat Pwes.
He emphasized his commitment to addressing any challenges that may arise during the potential revival of Zat Pwes, taking full responsibility for resolving them and working closely with authorities to address security concerns in this effort”, a source close to troupe community told Than Lwin Times.
The Chief Minister appears highly motivated to achieve his aim of rejuvenating Mon State, repeatedly expressing his unwavering commitment to the revival of Zat Pwes, the source added. "The Chief Minister says he will assume full responsibility over security matters and prompt issuance of permits for Zat Pwes. Curfew orders in Mon State townships will be eased from 12:00 am to 4:00 pm but rules mandate both the audience and troupe members to remain in certain areas designated for Zat Pwes”, he said.
The Military Council intends to grant permits for Zat Pwes performances in Mon State during the upcoming clear-weather season.
"The Junta aims to fabricate a peaceful image for the whole country and display it to the world. They also want to mislead some gullible people into thinking the country is peaceful under their rule”, Ko Aye Min Tun, a representative of the People's Defense Force (PDF) of Thaton District said.
He also anticipated that the Military Council would accuse and place blame on PDF and the resistance movement, if any explosions occurred during the planned Zat Pwes.
"During packed events like Zat Pwes, setting off explosives and then pointing fingers at their adversaries is a common tactic employed by the Military Council. Maybe they might use sound bombs to create panic, even if no harm is done. This scenario is highly likely. The Military Council aims to portray a peaceful scene with people enjoying Zat Pwes while painting we PDF as disruptors, ”, Ko Aye Min Tun explained.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the curfew imposed following the 2021 coup, the troupe’s activities have been halted for nearly four years.
Although some Zat Pwes have resumed performances since last year, they are yet to receive official permission to participate in seasonal festivals, wedding ceremonies, and other events, limiting their appearances to daytime performances in areas with bustling gambling activities.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were 42 traditional troupes in Mon State. Now with the approval of the Military Council-appointed Chief Minister, over 30 exist and new troupes are gearing up to restart their performance activities, according to sources.
The Military Council is fervently advocating for the organization of fun fairs featuring Zat Pwes, claiming that Mon State is now peaceful. However, in truth, security measures have been intensified in townships such as Kyaikto, Bilin, Thaton, Ye, Paung, and Kyaikmaraw due to the ongoing frequent violent clashes between the Military Council and resistance forces.
