The acts of violence being committed against Myanmar’s Rohingya Muslims represent a grave violation of the Myanmar government’s international commitment to protect civilians, said Iyad Ameen Madani, secretary-general of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Madani expressed “deep concern” over the recent events that took place on Jan. 14 involving the looting, raping and killing of Rohingya Muslim civilians in southern Maungdaw in the state of Rakhine.

He said that such acts violate agreements signed between the OIC ministerial contact group and Myanmar authorities during the group’s visit between Nov. 14 and 16.

He stressed that these acts violate the basic rights of Rohingya Muslims to be protected as citizens and as a minority by their own government.

They also represent a grave violation of the Myanmar government’s international

commitments to protect civilians.

The secretary-general urged the government of Myanmar to adhere to the framework agreed upon, to enforce the rule of law and to keep to its assurances of respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. Madani also called on the political leaders of Myanmar, especially those who claim the high moral ground, to exercise their influence for the sake of peace, tolerance and community reconciliation.