The Mongla-based National Democratic Alliance Army (NDAA) in a written response to Naypyitaw on Sunday, reiterated that it would choose to retain its ceasefire status until its six-point proposal is accepted by the Burmese junta, according to sources close to the Mongla leadership.

The letter was sent on February 28, soon after the conclusion of its two day meeting.  It was held at its main base Mongla, opposite China’s Daluo, following the junta’s options given on February 25: To become a BGF (Border Guard Force), surrender or return to being “an unlawful association.”

The meeting was presided over by its leader Sai Leun.  

The letter said the junta authorities so far have not considered its proposal, but instead have kept forcing the group to accept its own demands.

The NDAA’s proposed six points ( presented on 6 November 2009 to Naypyitaw) are:

•    No junta officers within the ranks at least during the trial period
•    No military trainings outside the Mongla territory
•    Not to discharge members over 50
•    To keep Hsaleu and Nampan inside Mongla territory as it is (Naypyitaw has placed Hsaleu inside Mongyang township and Nampan inside Mongyawng township)
•    Not to bring junta civil administrative apparatus to Mongla as yet
•    To maintain the Mongla administrative apparatus

“We believe in the principle of ‘one country, one government system,” the source quoted the letter as saying. “We don’t entertain any ideas of secession.”

An observer from the China border commented that the group has been under increased pressure after the January assassination of Min Ein, General Secretary of NDAA. Min Ein was said to be a supporter of the BGF policy.

Mongla is not alone in opposing Naypyitaw’s Border Guard Force programme. Its closest ally the United Wa State Army (UWSA) and four others: the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), Shan State Army (SSA) ‘North’, Kayan New Land Party (KNLP) and New Mon State Party (NMSP) have so far refused to accept the BGF proposal unless their autonomy demands are met.