The Junta is handing out rice and money to some war-displaced residents who have returned to downtown wards and surrounding villages in Loikaw, Karenni State.
Following 'Operation 1111' launched in Karenni State at the end of last year, residents of Loikaw fled to neighboring Shan State. Now with the situation having calmed somewhat, some have returned and resettled in Loikaw.
Tar Eh Soe, the information officer of the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF), stated that the distribution of such aid is merely a propaganda effort by the Junta, to persuade the public to accept the revival of the Junta’s administration.
Some of the returnees received 2 pyi (around 4.2 kg) of rice and 20,000 Myanmar Kyats in cash from the Junta, but only those aged 18 and over were given this allowance, according to residents.
"There have been four distributions of 2 pyi of rice by the Junta. The plan, led by Zaw Myo Tun, the regional military commander, gives each person 2 pyi of rice and 20,000 Kyats in cash. This support is only for those over the age of 18 and is not designated for children”, a Loikaw resident said.
However, Kantarawaddy Times has learned that some Loikaw residents have not received any aid. Currently, the number of people returning to Loikaw's downtown wards is significantly higher, than those returning to the villages.
Tar Eh Soe, the information officer of the KNDF responded, “The Junta will use various tactics to lure the public into accepting its administrative system. After 'Operation 1111,' Loikaw turned into a battlefield, suffering from Junta’s airstrikes and shelling, making it unsuitable for resettlement. Yet, the Junta employs persuasive methods to create the illusion that locals can return safely to Loikaw, to restore its rule”.
The resistance forces have warned people not to return to Loikaw, as 'Operation 1111,' which began on November 11, is still ongoing. The Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC) has also issued a similar warning.
"Returning to Loikaw now would only bolster the Junta's administration. IEC can only highlight this concern and is unable to intervene further at this time”, U Banyar, Secretary No. 2 of IEC stated.
In Loikaw, since the final week of May, residents have gradually returned and resettled in various areas, including Minsu, Nambawwan, 500-Acre, Industrial Zone, Shanpine, Dawnoeku, Chikei, Dawtama, Lawdhamma, Shwetaung, Market Sector, Mingalar, and Naungyar.
The Junta announced that the state attorney general's office, state judicial chief's office, state education commissioner's office, Loikaw district general administrative department office, and staff housing in downtown Loikaw are now fully operational.
