Myanmar’s Cardinal Bo reiterates call for end to violence as thousands flee homes

Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Myanmar appealed for an end to violence as thousands of civilians continue to flee their homes in the conflict-ridden Southeast Asian country.

“Nobody deserves violence, the torture, incarceration, and death that we witness in our country for the last four months,” said the prelate in a message during Mass on Sunday.

The United Nations estimated that up to 230,000 people have already been displaced by fighting in several parts of the country as armed ethnic groups wage war against government state forces.

The activist group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners reported that about 5,200 people have been detained and at least 881 people have already been killed since February when the military seized power.

“May the healing touch of Jesus our Lord touch each one of us, the nation and all its leaders and bring peace,” said Cardinal Bo in his homily during Sunday Mass.

The cardinal said Myanmar is experiencing “dark moments of challenges” as “thousands of our countrymen and women are in desperate need for food, medicine and shelter.”

The prelate reiterated his earlier call for prayer as he appealed to everyone “to share, as St Paul says, out of our abundance.”

He said the conflict added to the challenges brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.

Last week, at least six people who escaped to the jungles to avoid the shooting war in Myanmar’s Chin state reportedly died due to lack of access to medical care.

A pregnant woman, two infants, and three elderly people were the latest casualties since fighting erupted between Myanmar’s military and the dissident group Chinland Defense Force.

Villagers rest in makeshift tents after fleeing the fighting in Chin state’s Thantlang township, on June 11, 2021. (Photo courtesy of Radio Free Asia)

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that more than 20,000 people were sheltering at 100 displacement areas in Chin state bordering India.

An estimated 177,000 people were also displaced in Kayah state bordering Thailand. - LiCAS.news