November 2004

November 14 — The split with the Kachin Independence Organization has been solved after the meeting held in Myitkyina on Nov 11-12. The splinter group led by Col Lasang Awng Wa has agreed to return to KIO headquarters. Leaders of KIO, New Democratic Army-Kachin, KIO splinter group and Kachin Consultative Assembly signed meeting’s resolution.

November 10 — Only government owned and old vehicles are running on the streets of Myitkyina, capital of Kachin State, after Burmese military government launched nationwide crackdown on illegal vehicles. The unlicensed vehicle, which are imported by military intelligence, are no longer allow to drive since former prime minister Gen Khin Nyunt was ousted and National Intelligence Bureau has been dissolved in October.

November 09 — Kachin Consultative Assembly has organized to hold a meeting to solve the split within Kachin Independence Organization on Nov 11. Leaders of KIO, New Democratic Army-Kachin and KIO splinter group are planning to attend the meeting.

November 05 — Over 5,000 fans of ‘Plus Three’ music ban have showed up a concert held in Myitkyina’s Shatapru Baptist Church. Plus Three is the most popular band amongst Kachin and founded by young Kachin Myu Lat, Sut Gun and Ba Ba. “We entertain here not for money but just to upgrade our musical standard,” said a band member Sut Gun.

November 1 — Kachin has introduced new version of hymnal songs composed of traditional animist melody to worship Jesus Christ. The new hymnal culture has been changed after the musical competition ceremony held in Myitkyina on October 30. Christian Education Department under the Myitkyina district Kachin Baptist Convention has organized the musical ceremony.