Rohingya Community Association calls for rights recognition as Rakhine conflict worsens

Supporters rally against attacks on the Rohingya in Myanmar, in Dhaka, Bangladesh/Photo:EPA

Mizzima

The Rohingya Community Association issued a statement on 24 March calling for a recognition of Muslim Rohingya rights in the face of discrimination and attacks as the conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State worsens.

The following is the text of the statement:

Dear Rohingya Community Leaders, Activists, And Members,

Today, on March 24, 2024, the Rohingya Community Association urges all Rohingya individuals, particularly those within and outside the Arakan state of Myanmar, to heed our call. The situation in Arakan continues to deteriorate, with relentless clashes between the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar government resulting in the tragic loss of innocent Rohingya lives.

We must dissect the underlying causes of this violence, including the AA’s derogatory labeling of Rohingya as “Bengali.” As Rohingya Muslims and citizens of Myanmar, it is imperative that we reclaim our identity and demand recognition of our rights.

Inaction is not an option. We must unite and support the courageous freedom fighters within Arakan who are striving for our community’s welfare. The time for silence has passed; we must raise our voices and actively pursue freedom and justice.

Let us not forget the sacrifices required for liberation. Without sacrifice, there can be no freedom. Therefore, let us stand together and fight for our rights within the Arakan state of Myanmar.