“I can attest to the fact that with my own experience, the welfare of the society or even nation is incumbent upon the liberty that they enjoy. I do not want another person to go through the same ordeal that I have gone through,” he continued.
Seng was one of the 27 survivors of religious persecution who met with President Donald Trump at the White House last Wednesday.
A day prior to their meeting, the State Department announced that Tatmadaw chief Min Aung Hlaing, along with three other top officers and their families, were banned from visiting the United States for their role in orchestrating a crackdown against Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State.
“The torture divides our society and really disintegrates our country by infringing upon people’s liberty. I really want this to stop,” Seng said. “Secretary Pompeo’s designation is in response to these actions, so I welcome that.”
International Christian Concern’s (ICC) Regional Manager for Southeast Asia was delighted to meet Seng in Washington D.C., as ICC has followed his case closely and provided assistance to his family during this difficult season. Seng expressed his joy in meeting the organization that helped him and reiterated his appreciation to ICC’s assistance in times of need.
Earlier in April, Pastor Seng shared, “Thank you ICC for reaching out to us and providing us with the farming tractor for us to make a living, especially when we were having a very hard time. With this truck you provided, we are able to help many people. It is the most essential [tool] for me to provide for my family.”
He continued, “We still are facing so many difficulties today. Since many people living in the village left their homes to take refuge somewhere safe due to the resumed war, we had to start everything from ground zero. There are so many difficulties and hardships we cannot describe. ICC’s aid has been a great help for us to meet our basic needs because things are very hard here like traveling from one place to another and to earn basic income for food and clothing.”
Today, both Seng and his uncle continue to serve their congregation in Munggu, although life is very challenging, as locals are often arrested and tortured without cause by the Tatmadaw. They have asked ICC to pray more fervently for their villagers’ safety amidst the ongoing conflicts in Kachin land.
For interviews, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org