Two Shan political parties criticized a press statement issued by Tatmadaw (Defence Services) which says they will act against three leaders who led a Kyaukme demonstration.

Shan Nationalities Democracy Party (SNDP) General Secretary Sai Pho Aung said, “We think they should abide by the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA). Action should not be taken against these leaders.”

Thousands of local people staged a demonstration in Kyaukme town, northern Shan State on July 10 and demanded action against Tatmadaw (government troops) personnel who allegedly killed and injured civilians.

Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD) party spokesman Sai Lake said, “Action against peaceful demonstrators should not be done on any grounds. So we are planning to defend these people by representing them in court with a legal aid team from our party.”