Commander of Eastern Command Oo attended a ceremony to exchange arms for peace by Shan State (South) SSA-S (Wanyein) armed group at Loilem District playground in Loilem on 11 January.

It was also attended by senior military officers, departmental officials, social organization members, armed group members and their families, and local people.

First, the local people accorded warm welcome to the arms group and their families marching towards the playground.

A member of SSA-S (Wanyein) armed group said they have abandoned themselves to arm struggle line of their own accord. They had first been pleased to hold arms, being unable to distinguish between right and wrong. But, as time went by, they have realized that the arm struggle line is not beneficial to the State, the local people and themselves. So, they have come here to exchange arms for peace understanding the fact that the implementation of the seven-step Road Map laid down by the government is a true democratic way. Moreover, they have witnessed that the government is carrying out development tasks in all parts of the nation without any discrimination. It can also be seen that by establishing development regions acorss the nation, measures are being taken to develop the education, health, social and transport sectors of Shan State. He continued that they have absolutely trusted in the government’s attitude and goodwill as the 2008 constitution will guarantee the rights without racial and religious discrimination which they have expected. He pointed out that now is the best time for all national brethren to step forwards the new democratic nation in line with the seven-step Road Map.

In conclusion, he expressed thanks to the government and local people for forgiving their past wrong acts and warmly welcoming them. Daw Aye Moh Moh Tun spoke words of greetings in Myanmar language and Daw Nan Mway Phoung in Shan dialect.

Next, SSA-S (Wanyein) armed group handed over arms ammunitions and military equipment to the commander. The commander then presented cash assistance, food and construction materials to the armed group.

The commander and officials greeted them in a cordial manner and posed for photos together with them. They merrily take part in entertainment programme together with local traditional dance troupes.

There are 38 armed members and 21 family members in the SSA-S (Wanyein) armed group, bringing along with them 33 assorted guns and 710 ammunitions and 34 magazines.