We simply expect equal rights: Daw Imbiya Kha Tu from Kyauktaw
Are the Muslims,
who live in the townships of Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya and Pauktaw, currently
under the administration of the Arakan Army (AA),
still facing the same restrictions and prohibitions as they experienced under
the previous Myanmar governments. Or is there any change for the better ? To
understand it, Narinjara News reporters conducted a face-to-face dialogue with
Daw Imbiya Kha Tu (also known as Daw Ma Saw Myaing, aged over 50), a resident
of Kyauktaw township.
Question:
How
are the current living conditions for Muslim people in areas under the control
of AA?
Answer: Our livelihood is now somewhat comfortable. Previously, it
was difficult, but now it's better. Earlier, travelling was also very
difficult. We couldn't enter Kyauktaw town due to the conflict in 2012.
Permissions to travel were restricted. However, under the AA's
administration, travel has become more convenient.
Q: How does living under the AA now compare with the earlier time
under the military junta?
A: There are noticeable differences. Currently, everything is
fine. However, we cannot predict what the future holds. Thus far, Muslims have
the freedom to move around as they wish and live according to their
preferences.
Q: How is the current scenario in the healthcare sector?
A: In the past, if you needed medical treatment, you had to report
it in advance. For instance, if you were sick and needed to go for treatment,
you needed permission. If you had to travel to Sittwe, Kyauktaw hospitals it
was necessary to incur extra cost. We had to cover medical expenses and also
pay for a recommendation letter. Now, things have changed. Medical treatment is
available in Kyauktaw. Clinics established by the AA offer us access to
healthcare, and we can visit freely. They allow treatment, although most people
need a medical certificate to enter. However, there aren't enough doctors and
sufficient volume of medicines. Often critically ill patients die before they
could receive treatment.
Q: Is there any additional information you would like to share?
A: I have one more thing to say. Under the rule of the AA, the
Muslims must live according to their directives. Currently, the situation is
stable. However, if they mistreat us as they did in the past, it will not be
acceptable. We seek equal rights and opportunities alongside them, particularly
in employment. Our students also need to cooperate with them. That's what I
want to emphasize. I simply desire equality. We endured hardships in the past,
and I hope we do not face such difficulties once again. (END)