Incomplete Census in Rakhine State
Arakha Times (21-November-2024)
Despite efforts to conduct a population census starting on October 1, 2024, in Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, Manaung, Toungup, Ann, and Gwa townships, local sources report that a full census cannot be achieved due to the intense fighting between the Arakan Army (AA) and the military in Rakhine State.
Although Rakhine State comprises 17 townships, the AA controls 10 townships—Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya, Ponnagyun, Myebon, Buthidaung, Rathedaung, Pauktaw, Ramree, and Thandwe—making it impossible to collect census data in these areas.
Only in Sittwe and Kyaukphyu townships has the census been partially conducted.
A local from Mrauk-U, U Maung Naing, expressed doubts about the census completion, stating that while there may be no active fighting in some areas, many residents have fled due to ongoing conflict. Entire villages have been abandoned as people seek refuge in other regions.
“ Even if there’s no fighting, not a single administrative official from the military side remains in these areas. Even if they attempt to conduct the census, it’s uncertain whether it will be successful. In AA-controlled territories, it’s nearly impossible for them to enter. In places like Sittwe and Kyaukphyu, they may manage, but other areas will likely remain untouched. I’ve heard reports of census-taking in Sittwe, but not elsewhere,” he told Arakha Times.
In Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, and Manaung—townships under military control—locals believe the census is being conducted for appearances only. Military administrative systems seem functional only in urban neighborhoods, with little to no reach in rural villages.
Ko Khaing Min, a Kyaukphyu resident, explained, “ In Kyaukphyu town, the census is limited to urban areas. In the outskirts, it’s almost impossible to conduct. Only a handful of villages near the town may be covered, and even then, it’s just one or two villages.”
Political analysts criticized the census as being far from accurate, viewing it as a mere show. They highlighted the military’s significant expenditure of over 5.6 billion kyats on the census process. The results are expected to be announced on December 31, 2024.