Camp Correspondent
Maungdaw, Rakhine State – February 21, 2025
Tensions have emerged in Shwe Zar village, Maungdaw Township, as the selection process for local administrative leaders has become mired in disputes and allegations of corruption.
The Arakan Army (AA) and United League of Arakan (ULA) have announced plans to form leadership committees in Rohingya villages where displaced residents have been allowed to return.
While the intention is to ensure that these committees reflect the desires of local Rohingya, the process is now under scrutiny amid reports that large sums of money are being used to secure positions.
Villages such as Myo U, Latha, Nyaung Chaung, Pantaw Pyin, and Shwe Zar have seen the return of Rohingya families, whereas areas within Maungdaw town—including wards 1 to 5—have not yet been given repatriation clearance.
Furthermore, villages like Kyain Taung and Maung Ni remain off-limits for return, as reiterated by a regional AA commander in a meeting last month.
In a recent meeting held in Sedi Pyin village, Shwe Zar, on February 16, local Rohingya leaders were instructed to establish village administrative committees consisting entirely of Rohingya members.
The selection process is meant to be based on the will of the community. However, the situation in Shwe Zar has led to growing conflict as some individuals are allegedly using illicit funds to influence the process.
Local residents have voiced strong concerns, calling on ULA/AA township authorities to appoint leaders who are trustworthy and free from any involvement in illegal activities, including drug trafficking.
A local leader from Gon Nar village urged, “We need transparent and honest leadership. Our community cannot afford to be governed by those who profit from corruption.”
This unfolding situation in Shwe Zar underscores the broader challenges the Rohingya community faces in rebuilding their lives after displacement.
The struggle for fair and accountable local governance is critical to ensuring that returning refugees can regain a sense of security and self-determination.
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