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S.H.A.N. : FORMER MTA HARDLINERS SN



Subject: S.H.A.N. : FORMER MTA HARDLINERS SNEAK AWAY

S.H.A.N. : FORMER MTA HARDLINERS SNEAK AWAY
February 5, 1996

>From January 5 to 26, 1996, members of the Mong Tai Army ( formerly the most
powerful rebel group in the Shan State ) have been surrendering to the SLORC,
group by group, on various occasions and at different places. More than 10,000
are known to have surrendered so far.

But there are still some hardliners who do not want to surrender to the Burmese.
On January 30, 1996, Major Yord Serk, a prominent fighter, managed to sneak out
of the area now under Burmese control, and crossed to the west of the Salween
with a 7-800 strong force. This news became known on February 2.

Their aim and destination is not yet known. But most people think they are
heading for Kieng Lome, Kieng Kham, Kho Lam, Kieng Tong and Murng Pan areas to
merge with SSNA  (Shan State National Army) troops in the areas commanded by Zao
Zai Yee.

It appears that these troops do not want the armed struggle to be completely
wiped out before their national aim is achieved. They could not keep following
the MTA, because it does not represent the Shan State anymore and they wanted to
remain faithful to the aims of Zao Korn Zurng, the late prime minister.

Though their aims and policies are not yet clearly known, they are assumed to be
as follows : 
  -  To try to contact all other ethnic groups which can become a national force
of the peoples      of the Shan State and try to rebuild national unity.
  -  To strive to achieve democracy, collective leadership and protection of
human rights.
  -  To strive for the historical rights of the Panglong Agreement.
  -  To strive to improve the life of the people.
  -  To strive for peace in Shan State, Southeast Asia and the world.
     *****end*****