March 29, 2017
Teknaf- Rohingya Muslim rebel group Haraqah-al Yakin has denied links with any international terrorist organisation and has instead spoken of its support for UN peacekeeping troops in Arakan state.
The statement also ascertained the ‘legitimate right under international law to defend ourselves’.
The group stressed that it has not undertaken attacks against civilian populace.
Identifying themselves as the ‘Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army’, the statement expressed its heartfelt gratitude towards the UN, OIC, ASEAN, EU and numerous other organisations, especially UN envoy Yanghee Lee for their sincere support towards the Rohingya community. However, they pointed out that despite the sincere efforts of well-wishers, Rohingyas continue to suffer and thus it has become imperative that the beleaguered community mobilise to defend themselves.
Altogether the group issued 20 points mostly demanding equal rights and the access of international organisations. The group did not call for any independent state for the Rohingya people. However, the ARSA statement made clear that the ancient kingdoms of Arakan had nothing to do with Burmese rule till the late 18th century.
Despite lack of evidence, sections of the international media has stressed on the group’s alleged links with Pakistan, Saudia Arabia and Al Qaeda inspired groups.
ARSA also recognised the current civilian government is not in any position to change the fate of the Rohingyas and the genocide is unfolding under auspices of the Tatmadaw, widely known as the real rulers of Myanmar.
