Myanmar: Civil society coalition calls for halt to Myitsone dam; residents say fear of arrest prevents open opposition
"Civil society groups in Kachin State demand ‘total cessation’ of Myitsone dam project", 7 May 2026
A coalition of 49 Kachin civil society organizations issued a joint statement on Tuesday demanding the immediate and “total cessation” of the controversial Myitsone hydropower dam project, condemning the military regime for organizing sham public consultations and threatening local residents.
“It offers no benefits to the public and will only result in the severe destruction and loss of people’s lives, homes and properties. It is in direct opposition to the will of local Kachin people and the citizens of Myanmar,” the 49 Kachin groups wrote in their May 4 joint statement.
The groups are also demanding an immediate halt to all lobbying efforts and the intimidation of civilians.
Residents [...] told [...] that they are currently unable to publicly criticize the regime’s plans to resume the project due to a pervasive fear of arrest and persecution.