CONDOLENCE TO THE FAMILY:
U KYAW HLA AUNG (MOHAMMED KASIM) – 1940-2021
The European Rohingya Council (ERC) is extremely saddened to hear the demise of distinguished Rohingya grassroots human rights activist U Kyaw Hla Aung on July 31, 2021.
At 10:15 am local time, U Kyaw Hla Aung has passed away with long-standing medical conditions in Botahtaung Township, Yangon where he had been receiving medical treatments.
U Kyaw Hla Aung who was also known as Mohammed Kasim, was born in Sittwe to parents U Yousuf and Daw Gul Bodan. He has studied and practised law in Sittwe, particularly representing farmers and underprivileged members of society in Sittwe.
He was forced to live at Thet Kae Pyin IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camp after the outbreaks of state-sponsored violence against the Rohingya community in 2012. From the camp, U Kyaw Hla Aung has dedicated his life in representing and fighting for the rights of the Rohingya community.
His passion for the human rights was untainted. His resilience was extraordinary for which he was ranked the 28th among Fortune’s “The World’s 50 Greatest Leaders” in 2019. He has also deservedly earned many international accolades for his persistent fight for justice, accountability, equality and human rights.
His contributions are still felt in the grassroots communities which strive for peace and justice. The demise of U Kyaw Hla Aung is a great loss for the Rohingya community, particularly the remaining Rohingya in Arakan State, Burma.
The European Rohingya Council conveys our deepest condolence and prayers to the family and relatives of U Kyaw Hla Aung.
May Allah grant him Jannah and give strength to his family and friends.
