Public Security and Anti-Terrorism Central Supervisory Committee formed ahead of upcoming election
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Hsu/ Thuta Kyaw (NP News) - Aug 30
A retired police chief commented to The NP News that the Public Security and Anti-Terrorism Central Supervisory Committee might have also been established to bolster security measures during the upcoming elections.
The committee was officially established on 16 August, with the Union Minister of Border Affairs serving as chairperson, the Deputy Minister of Defense as vice-chairperson, and additional members including the Deputy Chief of Staff (Army), Vice Adjutant-General, Vice-Commanders of the Military Commands, and the head of the Myanmar Veterans Association.
The committee's responsibilities encompass forming and overseeing security and counter-terrorism teams at all administrative levels, from the Naypyidaw Council down to the states and regions level, district level and township levels. It also involves organizing and equipping public security and counter-terrorism teams at the neighborhood and village levels, ensuring the appropriate deployment of weapons and military equipment for ongoing conflicts, and training members for security, defense, and military operational responsibilities.
Furthermore, the committee provides technical expertise for the use of military equipment and handles tasks such as frontline operations, logistics, and rescue missions.
He stated, "In short, there's an existing legal framework and a counter-terrorism committee, alongside the military to combat armed insurgents and the police to enforce the law. If these established law-abiding organizations are functioning effectively, I question the need for a new formation. However, the government has thought it necessary, likely due to the escalating importance of public security and the worsening threat of terrorism. Even those who are not directly involved can experience anxiety living in a terrorized environment. When one feels unsafe in their surroundings, I believe this new formation is a positive step."
He also expressed his belief that the formation was motivated by the need to intensify ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. "With an election on the horizon, stability within the next six months is vital. I believe this new formation was established to bolster security and counter-terrorism efforts in preparation. If they can effectively achieve their objectives, it would be a commendable initiative," he said.