The peace dialogue between the armed separatist group Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) and the Peace Establishment Committee in Bandarban has been suspended.

Bandarban Hill District Council Chairman and convener of the Peace Establishment Committee Kya Shai Hla made the announcement at a press conference at Zila Parishad meeting room today (April 4).

He said a discussion meeting was held at Arun Saraki Town Hall on May 29, 2023 in the presence of leaders of various ethnic groups to bring members of the armed organization Kuki-Chin to normal life. 

Following this, a peace establishment committee consisting of 18 members was formed on June 9 of that year. Later, after several rounds of virtual meetings between the peace-making committee and the KNF, an opportunity was created to hold a direct dialogue based on the views of both sides, he said.

The officer said two dialogues were held on 5 November 2023 and on 5 March 2024. However, both dialogues resulted in the signing of two memorandums of understanding on KNF's cessation of armed activities and other issues.

They have violated the agreement by carrying out armed activities at various times. Although the committee repeatedly informed about this matter, they did not pay any heed. On the other hand, various misdemeanors including attacks, extortion, and kidnapping are continuing sporadically on the locals, he added. 

BDST: 1516 HRS, April 04, 2024
MSK/SMS