Most civil servants who joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) have not applied to remove their names from a military junta blacklist, despite a recent announcement offering amnesty to those who did not commit crimes, according to CDM members.
On January 31, the junta’s information team said blacklisted civil servants could contact their former ministries, relevant administrative offices, Myanmar embassies or the Union Government Office to request removal from the list and return to work.
However, CDM participants say few are willing to respond.
A former civil servant in Mawlamyine told Independent Mon News Agency that many CDM members have already started new lives and no longer wish to return to government service.
“After several years, people have found other ways to survive. Many do not trust the process. They are worried about their safety,” he said.
Under the announcement, applicants must submit requests through their former departments, and cases will be reviewed before any decision is made.
A CDM teacher currently living in a resistance-controlled area said many participants have endured hardship since the 2021 coup and remain committed to their decision.
“We have sacrificed a lot. It is not only about losing a job. It is about our belief,” she said.
The junta said blacklisting civil servants who left their posts without permission had caused a shortage of staff and affected public services.
Since the coup, thousands of civil servants, especially from the education and health sectors, joined the CDM. Many have faced arrest, travel restrictions and surveillance, according to resistance groups.
Observers say the junta’s latest move may be an attempt to reduce staff shortages and improve its image ahead of planned political processes.
