The Karen National Union (KNU) said its return to the peace process depends on the results of the informal meetings between the government and other armed ethnic groups.

It said in a statement over the weekend that it will look at how the informal meetings address the stumbling blocks in the peace process.

“It depends on the country’s leaders,” said Pado Saw Tar Do Mu, KNU general secretary.

KNU suspended its participation in the peace process on November 10, saying it needed to brief its members on what happened in the talks during the past two years.

The talks have hit a stalemate over several issues, including the military insistence on linking “non-secession” to the armed ethnic groups’ right to self-determination and to draft state constitutions.

“What is most difficult in the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement is achieving equality and building a democratic federal union with full autonomy,” he said.

Pado Saw Tar Do Mu also said ways must be sought to improve political dialogue without preconditions.

The leader urged both the Tatmadaw (military) and KNU to resolve their conflict in a peaceful manner and through negotiations.

“The Rakhine people must have the right to decide their fate. The most important issue is self-determination. Intervention in others’ affairs should stop,” he said.

He called on the Rakhine people to find a new way to push for their goals and aspirations.

“Sometimes we have to fight with arms, but the only way to find a solution is through peaceful negotiation of the issues, he said.