Three Karen armed groups have issued a joint statement pledging to safeguard local civilians who wish to cast their votes in the upcoming election organized by the military-appointed Election Commission, ensuring they will not face harm.
The announcement came after a meeting held on September 28th among the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA), the Border Guard Force/Karen National Army (BGF/KNA), and the Karen National Union/Karen National Liberation Army–Peace Council (KNU/KNLA-PC).
According to their joint statement, the groups believe that the Election Commission’s election will pave the way for a democratically elected government that can address the ongoing nationwide conflicts. They also expressed hope that it will help establish peace and stability in Karen State and improve the lives of its people.
Colonel Saw Kyaw Nyunt, General Secretary of the KNU/KNLA-PC, told IMNA that since the election is being held under extraordinary political circumstances, the groups intend to prioritize the peace and safety of the people.
“In a time when there are many political actors and differing perspectives, we discussed yesterday how we can ensure that no further problems arise for the people during the election. We agreed to focus on the peace of the local communities and provide necessary support in our respective areas,” he said.
The three groups stated that they respect the will of the local people in Karen State who will be casting their votes and promised to work together fully to protect them throughout the election.
The groups have not yet disclosed details on how they will carry out security measures or in what ways they will participate in the election process organized by the Election Commission.
Colonel Saw Kyaw Nyunt also noted that, in addition to the election, the peace meeting focused primarily on seeking solutions for regional stability.
It was learned that in previous years, four Karen armed groups—including the Karen National Union (KNU)—had held meetings to discuss stability in the region. However, KNU was unable to join the latest peace dialogue.
Meanwhile, other ethnic armed organizations have urged the three Karen groups to review and reconsider their joint statement, arguing that the military council’s election runs counter to the people’s will.
