Wirathu is regarded as the movement's highest protector. It has been reported that he advocates the boycott of shops owned by Muslims. Wirathu has himself stated that the movement has been treated as a scapegoat by being unfairly blamed for events like the 2012 Rakhine State riots, and maintains that "969 is not violent". The "Asia Times Online" has described him as a "complex figure" who demonises Muslims, but also protests police violence. An article in "The Straits Times" says a source indicated that Wirathu had changed his tone and "pledged to promote peace among religious communities".