Return to the Legal Fold: Five PDF members returned to legal fold in Magway

The Government has been inviting individuals involved in various armed resistance groups, including those under the name PDF, to return to the legal fold and has been providing necessary assistance to those who have done so.

Today on September 23, five members of a group identifying as PDF, who have come to understand the peace initiatives of the State and the Tatmadaw, have returned to the legal fold. These returning members stated that they could no longer accept the terrorist acts committed by the groups, such as forced conscription, threatening, arresting, and killing innocent civilians and civil servants for the benefit of terrorist organizations, planting mines and destroying non-military infrastructure like roads and bridges.

They also cited ethnic discrimination, internal hierarchical oppression, torture, killings, sexual violence, poor living conditions, and demoralization due to an inability to resist Tatmadaw operations as reasons for leaving. Furthermore, they expressed trust in the State and Tatmadaw’s peace processes and a desire to live peacefully under the law, hoping to contribute back to the State and people whom they had caused losses to.

A handover ceremony was held at the local battalion hall in Magway in the afternoon on September 23, for the five male members of so-called PDF group who returned to the legal fold from Taungoo Township (Bago Region), East Dagon, North Dagon (Yangon Region), and Bilin Township (Mon State).

Officials from the Magway Tactical Command under the Central Command, the returnees, and their parents or guardians attended the event. First, officials explained relevant legal provisions. Then, the returnees signed pledge agreements and were handed over to their parents or guardians.

Officials also provided them with support supplies, and one returnee expressed words of gratitude. The State continues to systematically receive, assist, and hand over such returnees to their guardians. It is reported that others still wish to return to the legal fold.

Those who wish to return are encouraged to quickly contact nearby District/Township Administration Offices, military camps, or police stations. They will be welcomed and provided with necessary support, and rewards will be given for weapons and ammunition surrendered.