Myanmar’s State Sangha Council, known as the Ma Ha Na, has taken further action against the Buddhist nationalist group that was formally called Ma Ba Tha, as part of attempts to curtail its activities. Last week, Ma Ha Na issued a warning to the group, now known as the Buddha Dhamma Prahita Foundation after use of the Ma Ba Tha name was banned last year by the Sangha. According to an article in ucanews.com, the Ma Ha Na ordered the group to end its activities and remove its signboards within 45 days. However, supporters of the group responded by saying that the Ma Ha Na “must take responsibility” if any unrest happens as a result of the action, according to an article in the Myanmar Times. While Ma Ba Tha is best known to many in the international community for the controversial anti-Muslim rhetoric from some of its members – most notably U Wirathu – the group is also heavily involved in grassroots activities, including in donations to schools and monks, as well as help with disaster relief. Analysts have previously warned that banning the group could potentially strengthen its support across the country.
