The Burma Army has ordered all media outlets not to publish statements from the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, the Kokang armed group which is attending the Ethnic Submit in Pangsang, the United Wa State Army Headquarters, according to a letter sent to the Interim Myanmar Press Council yesterday.

The statement said that the MNDAA was designated an unlawful association by the government. It warned that any media outlet that broadcast, published or disseminated statements of the MNDAA could face prosecution.

According to Article 17/1 of the Unlawful Association Act, prison terms of between two and three years can be given for being a member of an “unlawful association,” making contributions to one, or assisting its operations.

“There are two main purposes of MNDAA participation in this conference. The first purpose is to open negotiations between MNDAA and the government for ceasefire talks. The second purpose is to allow them (MNDAA) to be involved in the signing of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement with the government,” said U Aung Myint, spokesperson of the United Wa State Army.

“It will take time for the NCA to be signed because all groups must participate,” said Khuensai Jaiyen, Managing Director of the Pyidaungsu Institute for Peace and Dialogue.