Myanmar junta’s Rakhine blockade raises civilian risk amid Chinese project
Last Updated on December 29, 2023 12:21 pm
Myanmar’s military regime has imposed a blockade on Kyaukphyu in Rakhine State as it intensifies efforts to advance the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and deep-seaport project in collaboration with China.
The junta, inking an addendum to the project’s concession agreement with Chinese state-owned firm CITIC in Naypyitaw, aims to fast-track the stalled SEZ construction—a crucial component of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative, providing China with an alternative route to the Indian Ocean, the Irrawaddy reported.
Residents report that junta troops are blocking roads and waterways, preventing rural inhabitants from entering Kyaukphyu for work, goods, or essential services. A high school student died of dysentery after being barred from entering the town for medical treatment.
The junta has issued an order restricting rural access to Kyaukphyu until February 19, heightening tensions.
The blockade reflects the junta’s apprehension about potential attacks by the Arakan Army (AA) in Kyaukphyu, where Chinese investment projects are underway.
However, these actions pose risks to civilian lives and livelihoods, with locals expressing concerns that Chinese investments may adversely impact their way of life, particularly in sea fishing.
An activist monitoring the Kyaukphyu SEZ and deep-sea port project suggests that the junta seeks Chinese support in its conflict with the ethnic armed Brotherhood Alliance, including the AA.
While the regime drives the project, collaboration with the AA remains crucial, as any disagreement could disrupt progress.
In other Rakhine State townships, junta troops target civilians, as seen in Nwar Yone Taung village, where artillery rounds killed a 13-year-old and injured four.
In Ponnakyun Township, farmers were warned not to harvest paddy fields due to planted landmines, potentially provoking food shortages.
Additionally, a junta artillery unit in Kazu Kaing village, Ann Township, shelled Upper Ywar Haung, destroying several houses.