More fighting in southern Shan
Battles between government forces and the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) continued in Mong Hsu Township, southern Shan State, says Colonel Sai La from the SSPP on October 21.
“Fighting broke out at 11am on October 21. Government troops used heavy weapons. Currently, artillery is being fired at our camp,” said Sai La.
There have been around 37 skirmishes near the Tar Hsan Pu Jetty patrolled by the SSPP since October 6, according to the Myawaddy News Agency.
The skirmishes reportedly left three dead and 15 injuries from the SSPP.
“We did not sign the nationwide ceasefire agreement in Nay Pyi Taw on October 15, that’s why we are likely to face attacks as the government tries to make us sign,” Sai La added.
Karen National Union chairman Saw Mutu Say Poe told the ceasefire ceremony that the armed forces should negotiate rather than using force to persuade other organisations to sign the peace deal.
Three non-signatories, the Karen National Liberation Army, Arakan Army and SSPP, have separately denounced recent military attacks in regions they control.
Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi launched her campaign in Kyaing Tong Township in the state. Election at several villages in the state will not be held due to skirmishes.
