Junta Development Programs

'Junta Development Programs Are War Efforts': Ex-Khun Sa Fighter

A retired fighter from the Mong Tai Army of Khun Sa who surrendered in 1996, and whose "Free Territory of Shan State" has been taken over by the Rangoon forces since, recently charged the occupying army's development program in the area of being just another war effort.

The ex-fighter, who requested anonymity, told S.H.A.N. that Lt.-Col. Myint Sway, Commander, IB 65 from Mongton, who is currently in charge of security in the Mongtaw-Monghta Area, Mongton Township, across from Wianghaeng District of Chiangmai, called a meeting of village headmen on 9 January at the village of Pangyang, 4 kilometers from the border. "Col. Myint Sway informed the villagers that the government was planning to build three bridges in the area at the projected B. 300,000 budget, owners of the 4 wheelers, about 30 of them, were required to contribute B. 6,300 each, and those of the 20 plus pickups B. 3,000 each. They were also required to haul rocks and sand to the bridge sites".

"Other villagers were ordered to carry rocks and fell trees to be used in the construction. It is the same in Tasarng - Mongton road. People are carrying rocks and breaking them for road construction. All for free and a hefty fine for absence. Even the MTA didn't treat the people this way".

The source continued, "They are claiming all over that they are developing the country. But have they ever stop to ask the people whether they want them? No, they don't, because it is only them who want these bridges and roads so they can make war on us more easily and quickly".

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