The Minister of Border and Security Affairs in Rakhine State has rejected a proposal to form a Muslim elders group in the State capital in Sittwe. The Minister said there is already a similar group exists. The group was formed at a suggestion by a Yangon based think-tank the Centre for Diversity and National Harmony (CDNH). A town elder, U Ko Lay, said it is unacceptable to allow a new Muslim group to be established, as it would create renewed tension in the state. The local residents said they do not accept the formation of a new committee and if the group continue to refer itself as the town elders committee a lawsuit will be filed against them. The Muslim elders from Sittwe has formed the elders group on 2 October and proposed for the government’s approval. Reference: Daily Eleven October 4 page 24