2025 Multiparty Democratic General Election Phase I successfully held with public participation despite terrorist disruptions
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In a democratic system, elections are of the utmost importance, and the voters must exercise their right to vote, which is one of their fundamental civic rights to choose and determine the future direction of the country. The Republic of the Union of Myanmar completed Phase I of the 2025 Multiparty Democratic General Election on 28 December. In Phase I, all can see that voters cast their votes actively and peacefully at the polling stations in 102 townships nationwide as responsible citizens without any pressure from 6 am until the closing of polling stations. While the government and the people were choosing the democratic path, terrorist groups continued violent extremism and carried out malicious and brutal acts with the intent to disrupt the election process, prevent eligible voters from reaching polling stations, destroy open polling stations, and intimidate voters. These acts included direct and indirect attacks such as firing homemade heavy weapons and rockets from a distance, detonating sound bombs, blocking transport vehicles used to carry voters to polling stations, issuing threat letters, dropping bombs using drones, firing from fixed-wing, and spreading false information. On the day of Phase 1 election, the terrorists committed destructive actions such as exploding homemade sound bomb at polling station 82 at the No 11 BEHS in Shwenyaungpin Ward in Myitkyina Township, Kachin State, firing 107mm homemade rockets into Shwetaung and Mingala wards in Loikaw Township, Kayah State, exploding homemade mines near KBZ bank in Ward 3 and near the Myanmar-Thailand Friendship Bridge II in Ward 5, Myawady in Kayin State, attacking the government office of Taninthayi Region with fixed wings, blocking ways of 17 palm oil farmers who were going to the polling station from Maran nursery of Yuzana Palm Oil Company in Aungchantha village-tract, Khamaukgyi, attacking the polling station 2 in Shwebo, Sagaing Region, with bomb drops, firing six homemade rockets to the Nationalities Youth Resource Development Degree College (Sagaing), dropping bombs near the polling station 3 at the No 2 BEHS in Sawbwa 1 Ward, Tamu, attacking from the north and south of Katha Township using heavy and small weapons, attacking inner part of Nantawkyun village, Madaya and Aungmyaythazan townships in Mandalay Region using 107mm rockets, dropping bombs near general administrative office, court and central prison of Myingyan, opening fire near the polling station 64 in Zone 9 and near BEPS (Pyun) in NyaungU. The terrorists committed attacks in 11 townships out of 102 constituencies of Phase I, starting from 27 December until the evening of 28 December. Although only five civilians were injured, voters who firmly believed in democracy, had confidence in and supported the election management of the government queued to cast vote in 102 townships of Phase I election starting from 5:30 am on the morning of 28 December, and the voters who were still within the compound of polling station from the opening hour 6 am to 4 am and after 4 pm were also able to cast votes. By 5:30 pm, Phase I of the general election was completed successfully in 102 townships nationwide. During the pre-election period of the 2025 Multiparty Democratic General Election, terrorist groups also carried out acts intended to disrupt election-related processes. In 41 townships, they engaged in activities such as distributing and posting false propaganda leaflets in public places, organizing and inciting anti-election campaigns, writing incitements, hanging posters, shouting slogans and hurling insults to discourage voting, playing sound box, speaker urging people not to vote, destroying, toppling, or burning public awareness signboards and posters promoting successful elections (23 incidents), attacking election security members (four incidents), carrying out bomb attacks (six incidents), detonating homemade sound bombs (two incidents), bombing attacks using homemade grenades (six incidents), rocket attacks (three incidents), armed threats against responsible government officials and members of political parties (three incidents), and abductions (six incidents), amounting to a total of 54 acts of obstruction and destruction. Even though terrorist groups and exile media attempted through various means to undermine the success of the election process, weaken the multiparty democratic system, and defame it through false and misleading reports, the Government and the people who support multiparty democracy successfully held Election Phase I with freedom, fairness, and transparency. This was done in the presence of international election observers, diplomats, media representatives, and voters who personally cast their votes. Therefore, for the upcoming Phase II and Phase III, the government and officials of security and administration must make greater efforts to ensure that voters’ rights are fully protected to cast their votes safely. Responsible citizens who welcome and support democracy, and who desire nationwide stability, peace, and development, are urged to cooperate with the relevant authorities by reporting any information or suspicious activities related to terrorist movements to continue leading towards the democratic path through simple and peaceful means. — MNA/KTZH
The Union Accords, which consolidate the outcomes of earlier peace conferences held under previous governments, are now set to be submitted to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw for constitutional amendment.State Security and Peace Commission Chairman and Defence Services Commander-in-Chief Senior General Thadoe Maha Thray Sithu Thadoe Thiri Thudhama Min Aung Hlaing delivered a speech at the Parade of the 81st Anniversary of Armed Forces Day on 27 March 2026. The full text of the speech is as follows: —Comrades,Today marks the 81st Anniversary of Armed Forces Day of the Tatmadaw, a solemn and proud occasion that resonates with the enduring legacy of our Armed Forces, forged in the crucible of the nation’s struggle for independence. This day bears profound historical significance, as it marks the momentous 27 March 1945, when Tatmadaw, in resolute unity with the people, rose against fascist domination after having initially taken up arms to expel the vestiges of colonial rule. On this solemn and significant occasion for both our nation and Tatmadaw, I wish to underscore several key points for reflection and renewed commitment.Comrades,Our nation stands among the distinguished nations of the world, bearing a proud legacy and a prosperous identity forged through centuries. But, in the nineteenth century, the British showed different reasons to relinquish our independence and sovereignty, and fulfilled their imperial expansion. To retain our independence and sovereignty, the Burma Independence Army (BIA), under the leadership of General Aung San, sought military training and tactics from Japan. In unity with the people, they rose in resistance against British rule.After the British withdrew, Japan failed to honour its commitment to grant genuine independence. Instead, the strength of Tatmadaw was curtailed. Further, the independence proved to be illusory. In response to the suffering of the people under fascist domination, the Tatmadaw, in concert with the people, launched the historic Anti-Fascist movement on 27 March 1945. From that time onwards, our Tatmadaw remained steadfast in its commitment to securing complete independence and safeguarding the nation from foreign suppression.Independence is the truest expression of national sovereignty. It signifies that all nationalities may freely exercise the three main sovereign powers – namely, the legislative, executive, and judicial – in accordance with the collective will and circumstances of the nation. Accordingly, the preservation and safeguarding of the independence and sovereignty won through the sacrifices of countless lives remain both a sacred historical trust and an inherent duty entrusted to every Tatmadaw member and to all nationalities of the Union.Comrades,The internal insurgencies rooted in the ideological diversity, political diversity, and ethnic affairs among nationalities who have long coexisted throughout history due to the instigation of British imperial rule, came into existence since independence, and our Tatmadaw, led by Lt-Gen Smith Dun and General Ne Win, has remained steadfast in safeguarding the nation, never relinquishing the hard-won independence and national sovereignty secured through immense sacrifice. In the discharge of this solemn duty, the Tatmadaw has resolutely resisted foreign encroachments, including those of the Kuomintang forces, and suppressed the Mujahedin insurgency, while steadfastly undertaking operations to restore stability in the face of diverse internal insurgent groups with courage and determination.Furthermore, Tatmadaw, upholding a righteous cause and a profound sense of national duty, has resolutely safeguarded the nation in times of grave danger. In light of these trials, it may be declared with conviction that Tatmadaw has not only stood tall as the vanguard and bastion of the nation and its people – undaunted in adversity whenever the Our three main national causes are imperilled – but also remains steadfast in its revered duty to safeguard the future of the nation.Comrades,Our nation, once united under the tradition of a sovereign kingdom before the loss of its independence, has since traversed diverse systems of governance, including the parliamentary democratic order established in the post-independence era. In the wake of certain inadequacies, along with internal and external instigations that impeded the consolidation of a strong and stable Union under the socialist system, unrest ensued, whereupon Tatmadaw assumed responsibility for the nation in 1988. From that turbulent juncture, Tatmadaw led by Senior General Saw Maung and Senior General Than Shwe, has steadfastly advanced the foundations of national development across the political, economic, and social spheres, and has instituted a quintessential State Constitution to foster a disciplined democratic system and a market-oriented economy.Comrades,In this regard, our Tatmadaw has played a leading role in facilitating the transition towards the democratic system desired by the people, as reflected in the multiparty democratic general election of 2010 under the Constitution (2008). However, on 1 February 2021, in response to allegations of widespread electoral irregularities under the NLD-led government and concerns regarding the legal legitimacy of the elected Hluttaw representatives in the 2020 General Election, Tatmadaw temporarily assumed responsibility for the nation in accordance with the provisions of the State constitution. In this pursuit, Tatmadaw sought to uphold the multiparty democratic system aspired by the people. At present, Tatmadaw remains steadfastly committed to this course, having undertaken all necessary measures to ensure the successful conduct of elections, and has reaffirmed its pledge to support the government legitimately elected by the people, intending to strengthen and sustain the multiparty democratic system.Comrades,A Constitution is the fundamental law, enacted to safeguard the long-term interests of the nation. A constitution must, above all, be drafted in accordance with the nation’s identity, historical experience, ethnic composition, religious traditions, political realities, economic conditions, and other fundamental considerations. In the Constitution (2008), the inclusion of Tatmadaw’s role, along with its solemn mandate “to safeguard the state constitution”, reflects lessons distilled from historical shortcomings. These provisions were formally enshrined out of absolute necessity, guided by the objective realities and imperatives of our nation.Furthermore, the provision stating that Tatmadaw shall “consistently aim to participate in the national political leadership role of the State” was enunciated to enable Tatmadaw to collaborate in the national interest, in pursuit of the imperatives of our nation. It must be clearly understood that this does not signify ‘leading in politics’, as certain pessimists may allege, but rather embodies Tatmadaw’s constructive engagement in national politics, devoted to safeguarding and advancing the nation’s affairs. National politics embodies an enduring vision, oriented towards the sustainable advancement of the interests of the nation and its people. It is anchored in our Three Main National Causes – the non-disintegration of the Union, the non-disintegration of national solidarity, and the perpetuation of sovereignty – which constitute the pivotal pillars safeguarding the independence and sovereignty of our nation. Throughout successive periods since independence, Tatmadaw has discharged its national political responsibilities with the steadfast purpose of defending these Three Main National Causes as a historic duty. Therefore, I wish to affirm that Tatmadaw will continue to serve the interests of the nation and its people in full accordance with the provisions of the state constitution.Comrades,Tatmadaw has embarked upon the path of building a Standard Army, with the avowed aim of evolving into a formidable force endowed with large-scale combat readiness and comprehensive operational effectiveness. In this endeavour, training stands as the foremost pillar in attaining such readiness. Accordingly, every soldier must maintain health, fitness and efficacy, while every unit must engage in continuous training to strengthen their mettle, in steadfast adherence to the guiding principle: “Study, Practise, Comply”. To ensure full operational effectiveness, the forces must be equipped with modern weaponry and materiels; to this end, domestic research and development is being vigorously advanced, while essential procurement needs are systematically fulfilled.Comrades,Tatmadaw stands as a trusted institution of the nation, founded upon the enduring pillars of strong morale, strict discipline, and steadfast obedience to command. The triumphant culmination of the anti-fascist movement was achieved through the harmonious fusion of the patriotic fervour of the Burma Independence Army era with the discipline and order of the Burma Defence Army, in resolute collaboration with the people. This stands as an enduring testimony to the defining hallmarks of our Tatmadaw. Accordingly, I urge all personnel to cultivate a deep and diligent understanding of our history, and, rooted in an abiding sense of patriotism, to strive both individually and collectively to uphold a Tatmadaw distinguished by excellence in morale, discipline, and steadfast obedience.Comrades,Foreign aggressors and self-serving political opportunists, past and present alike, have relentlessly sought to undermine and erode the strength and unity of our Tatmadaw. Yet, in the face of such persistent designs, our resolve shall never falter, nor shall our unity be shaken. On the contrary, we shall stand ever more resolute, fortifying unity and cohesion across all ranks, in adherence to our guiding principle: “No matter who seeks to divide us, we shall ever remain united”.While fortifying cohesion within our ranks, we must equally give due emphasis to our engagement with the public. In this regard, all Tatmadaw members must embrace the guiding ethos of “Mother-Figure People, Father-Figure People” and diligently carry out their responsibilities in the service of public welfare.Comrades,Armed terrorist factions that persist along the path of violence, invoking federal, democratic and ethnic affairs as pretexts, are largely sustained by illicit activities, including telecom fraud, unlawful online gambling, narcotics trafficking, and transnational crime. As these activities serve to finance such elements and threaten national stability, I wish to inform you that comprehensive nationwide operations are being vigorously conducted. Simultaneously, the cooperation with regional partners and international organizations is being strengthened to combat this menace with determination and resolve.Comrades,Scrutinizing a nation’s security sector reveals that its foremost responsibility is to ensure socioeconomic security and safeguard the life and property of every citizen. It is incumbent upon each citizen to uphold steadfast security awareness and vigilance, thereby fortifying the resilience, integrity, and enduring strength of the nation’s public security framework.Across every township, ward, and village, Public Protection Forces have been meticulously trained and organized to pre-empt, prevent, and suppress terrorist activities, while public security operations are carried out with resolute determination. In this endeavour, the People’s Militia for local security and the People’s Military Service System for national defence are administered in strict accordance with the nation’s legal framework. It can be seen that countries across the world exercise the national conscription act. I urge all members of the public to continue their active cooperation in the People’s Security processes, thereby ensuring the comprehensive safeguarding of the nation’s socioeconomic life.Comrades,Among the Three Main National Causes, the Non-disintegration of National Solidarity embodies enduring peace, which serves as an indispensable pillar of our nation’s stability and prosperity. It must be clearly recognized that the fruits of lasting peace are not for Tatmadaw or any single organization, but for the State and all ethnic peoples collectively. Accordingly, persistent and deliberate efforts to engage in peace dialogues with ethnic armed organizations have been undertaken across successive epochs.Tatmadaw’s issuance of a declaration on ceasefire and enduring peace on 21 December 2018 laid the foundation for the subsequent implementation of unilateral ceasefires. On 22 April 2022, in the wake of a peace address stating, “I will personally meet and hold discussions with all ethnic armed organizations to implement peace practically and effectively”, formal in-person dialogues were held with the leaders of ethnic armed organizations. As the culmination of these historic dialogues, 43 agreements to amend and supplement the Constitution (2008) were formally concluded and ratified. Moreover, the Union Accords, synthesizing the outcomes of preceding peace conferences under the erstwhile governments, are now poised for submission to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, where they will undergo thorough and meticulous deliberation and subsequent amendment.Comrades,Our nation is firmly committed to the practice of a democratic political system, while resolutely advancing towards the consolidation of a Union founded upon democratic and federal principles in its State structure. A federal system does not rest upon the interests of any individual or single ethnicity, but upon the equitable organization of regions and territories. In its implementation within our nation, a region-based Union, aligned with our national realities, will be adopted, drawing upon the wisdom and experience accumulated across successive historical epochs.At present, however, capable representatives entrusted with carrying forward the will of the people have emerged through the Multiparty Democratic General Election and the respective Hluttaws now stand duly convened and in session. As every vote cast embodies the intellect and sovereign will of the people, those who have emerged as representatives to the Hluttaws bear the solemn responsibility of discharging national duties with foresight, resolute loyalty, and the utmost gravity.I wish to underscore that, while the National Defence and Security Council will continue to provide steadfast guidance until a strong and stable government emerges, capable of steering the nation resolutely along its political course, Tatmadaw shall remain ever vigilant and prepared to discharge its responsibilities in safeguarding the national interest.Comrades,In conclusion, I solemnly affirm that Tatmadaw has faithfully discharged its sacred duties, unfailingly upholding the welfare of the nation and its people above all considerations throughout successive epochs. Up till now, Tatmadaw continues to safeguard the Union and its citizens, guided by the timeless principle: “Mother-Figure People, Father-Figure People”. Let it be unequivocally reaffirmed that Tatmadaw shall remain steadfast, a modern and patriotic institution that endures well-being of the nation and its people.gnlm
Myanmar and Thailand emphasized the need to further strengthen cooperation between their two militaries.State Security and Peace Commission Chairman and Defence Services Commander-in-Chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing received a delegation led by General Ukris Boontanondha, Chief of Defence Forces of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, at Zeyathiri Beikman in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.They cordially discussed the long-standing and positive diplomatic relations and friendly cooperation between the two countries and their armed forces, the further promotion of cooperation between the two militaries, and the maintenance of regional stability and peace, as well as stability and tranquillity in border areas.They also exchanged views on the further promotion of cooperation between Myanmar and Thailand and the two armed forces, the plans to hold the High-Level Committee meeting of the armed forces of Myanmar and Thailand, and the cooperation in training measures between the two armed forces.Moreover, both sides’ discussions focused on combatting illegal trade through the border regions of both countries, conducting the operations of drug eradication, environmental conservation, efforts to reduce the transboundary haze pollution, and cooperation in effectively preventing telecom fraud.Both sides also emphasized Myanmar’s endeavours in holding a free and fair, clean and prestigious multiparty democratic general election successfully, and convening the Hluttaw sessions at present, holding an election in Thailand recently, and the process of convening the Parliament at present.After the meeting, the Senior General and the Thai Chief of Defence Forces exchanged commemorative gifts and had documentary photos taken together with attendees.Also, present at the meeting were Commission Vice-Chairman and Defence Services Deputy Commander-in-Chief Vice-Senior General Soe Win, Commission Secretary and Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Ye Win Oo, Commission Member and Chief of the General Staff (Army, Navy and Air) General Kyaw Swa Lin, and senior Tatmadaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief. The Thai Chief of Defence Forces was accompanied by Chief of Joint Staff General Chitchanok Nujjaya and senior military officers from the Royal Thai Armed Forces, the Military Attaché (Army) of Thailand to Myanmar and officials. — MNA/TTAgnlm
In a democratic system, elections are of the utmost importance, and the voters must exercise their right to vote, which is one of their fundamental civic rights to choose and determine the future direction of the country. The Republic of the Union of Myanmar completed Phase I of the 2025 Multiparty Democratic General Election on 28 December.In Phase I, all can see that voters cast their votes actively and peacefully at the polling stations in 102 townships nationwide as responsible citizens without any pressure from 6 am until the closing of polling stations.While the government and the people were choosing the democratic path, terrorist groups continued violent extremism and carried out malicious and brutal acts with the intent to disrupt the election process, prevent eligible voters from reaching polling stations, destroy open polling stations, and intimidate voters. These acts included direct and indirect attacks such as firing homemade heavy weapons and rockets from a distance, detonating sound bombs, blocking transport vehicles used to carry voters to polling stations, issuing threat letters, dropping bombs using drones, firing from fixed-wing, and spreading false information.On the day of Phase 1 election, the terrorists committed destructive actions such as exploding homemade sound bomb at polling station 82 at the No 11 BEHS in Shwenyaungpin Ward in Myitkyina Township, Kachin State, firing 107mm homemade rockets into Shwetaung and Mingala wards in Loikaw Township, Kayah State, exploding homemade mines near KBZ bank in Ward 3 and near the Myanmar-Thailand Friendship Bridge II in Ward 5, Myawady in Kayin State, attacking the government office of Taninthayi Region with fixed wings, blocking ways of 17 palm oil farmers who were going to the polling station from Maran nursery of Yuzana Palm Oil Company in Aungchantha village-tract, Khamaukgyi, attacking the polling station 2 in Shwebo, Sagaing Region, with bomb drops, firing six homemade rockets to the Nationalities Youth Resource Development Degree College (Sagaing), dropping bombs near the polling station 3 at the No 2 BEHS in Sawbwa 1 Ward, Tamu, attacking from the north and south of Katha Township using heavy and small weapons, attacking inner part of Nantawkyun village, Madaya and Aungmyaythazan townships in Mandalay Region using 107mm rockets, dropping bombs near general administrative office, court and central prison of Myingyan, opening fire near the polling station 64 in Zone 9 and near BEPS (Pyun) in NyaungU. The terrorists committed attacks in 11 townships out of 102 constituencies of Phase I, starting from 27 December until the evening of 28 December. Although only five civilians were injured, voters who firmly believed in democracy, had confidence in and supported the election management of the government queued to cast vote in 102 townships of Phase I election starting from 5:30 am on the morning of 28 December, and the voters who were still within the compound of polling station from the opening hour 6 am to 4 am and after 4 pm were also able to cast votes. By 5:30 pm, Phase I of the general election was completed successfully in 102 townships nationwide.During the pre-election period of the 2025 Multiparty Democratic General Election, terrorist groups also carried out acts intended to disrupt election-related processes. In 41 townships, they engaged in activities such as distributing and posting false propaganda leaflets in public places, organizing and inciting anti-election campaigns, writing incitements, hanging posters, shouting slogans and hurling insults to discourage voting, playing sound box, speaker urging people not to vote, destroying, toppling, or burning public awareness signboards and posters promoting successful elections (23 incidents), attacking election security members (four incidents), carrying out bomb attacks (six incidents), detonating homemade sound bombs (two incidents), bombing attacks using homemade grenades (six incidents), rocket attacks (three incidents), armed threats against responsible government officials and members of political parties (three incidents), and abductions (six incidents), amounting to a total of 54 acts of obstruction and destruction.Even though terrorist groups and exile media attempted through various means to undermine the success of the election process, weaken the multiparty democratic system, and defame it through false and misleading reports, the Government and the people who support multiparty democracy successfully held Election Phase I with freedom, fairness, and transparency. This was done in the presence of international election observers, diplomats, media representatives, and voters who personally cast their votes.Therefore, for the upcoming Phase II and Phase III, the government and officials of security and administration must make greater efforts to ensure that voters’ rights are fully protected to cast their votes safely. Responsible citizens who welcome and support democracy, and who desire nationwide stability, peace, and development, are urged to cooperate with the relevant authorities by reporting any information or suspicious activities related to terrorist movements to continue leading towards the democratic path through simple and peaceful means. — MNA/KTZHgnlm
THE fragile global legal framework for nuclear weapons control faces further setbacks in 2026, eroding guardrails to avoid a nuclear crisis.The first half of the year will see two key events: the US-Russia bilateral treaty, New START, expires on 5 February, and in April, New York hosts the Review Conference (RevCon) of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) -- the cornerstone of global nuclear security frameworks.The RevCon, held every four to five years, is meant to keep the NPT alive.But during the last two sessions, the 191 signatory states failed to agree on a final document, and experts expect the same outcome in April.“I think this is going to be a difficult RevCon,” said Alexandra Bell, head of US -based global security nonprofit the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, at a UN-hosted online conference in early December.“In terms of the current state and near future prospects of nuclear arms control architecture, things are bleak,” she added.Anton Khlopkov, director of Russian think-tank the Centre for Energy and Security Studies (CENESS), took an even starker point of view, saying at the same event that “we are at the point of almost complete dismantlement of arms control architecture”.“We should be realistic in the current circumstances. At best, I think we should try to preserve what we have,” he said.‘Crumbling’ safeguards From US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites to Russia’s test of the new Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile and US President Donald Trump’s remarks about possibly resuming nuclear tests -- the international nuclear landscape darkened in 2025.At the same time, “the arms control architecture is crumbling”, Emmanuelle Maitre of France’s Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS) told AFP.A key challenge hinges on a shift in global relations.Nuclear control had been built over decades around a Moscow-Washington axis, but China’s growing power and rapid technological advances have shifted the international playing field, which is simultaneously increasingly strained.“The growing interlinkage between nuclear and conventional forces and the emergence of disruptive technologies (such as the US Golden Dome defence system and new hypersonic weapons) have transformed traditional nuclear deterrence into a multi-domain concept, especially in a multipolar world,” said Peking University’s Hua Han. — AFPgnlm
NDSC Information Team Leader Ma-J Gen Zaw Min Tun informed citizens and the media about the ongoing efforts to crack down on online gambling activities in the Myawady area, as well as the cooperation being carried out with international partners.He outlined international cooperation in combatting telecom fraud and online gambling in the Myawady Region including the operation of security forces together with departmental teams conducted in the Shwe Kokko area, located to the north of Myawady, 346 foreign nationals currently under scrutiny were arrested, blocking and apprehending individuals attempting to flee across the border, three areas within this zone where online gambling operations have been active such as KK Park area located to the south of Myawady, the Shwe Kokko area located to the north of Myawady, and Chongkhaed area lies at the southernmost end. In the KK Park area, the main entities involved are the Mulaei Alin Company and the Tran-Asia International Holding Group (Thailand).In the Shwe Kokko area, the entity involved is the Myanmar Yatai International Holding Group Company. In the Chongkhaed area, the Chongkhaed Garden Resort Company is involved. The foreign nationals involved in online gambling and telecom fraud operations arrived in these areas.Roughly 99.5 per cent of those foreign nationals engaged in online scams entered Myanmar through the neighbouring country. In those areas, ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) and groups such as the KNU, the KNLA, some EAOs that are signatories to the NCA, as well as groups operating under the name of border guard forces, have been active.In the first area where the territorial clearance and Administration began – KK Park to prevent any chance of online gambling operations re-establishing themselves. To achieve that, 100 per cent of the buildings in that area were destroyed. Machinery was used to demolish structures, and some high-level explosive demolitions were also conducted.Regarding these demolitions, the neighbouring country has raised objections, saying that debris had fallen inside their territory. There are video records documenting these actions. Those records have already been shown, through video evidence that the debris did not fall into their territory.During that demolition, it was also clearly observable that no debris fell into their territory, not even into the river that forms the boundary between the two countries. Based on this, the operations to demolish and clear structures in the area are being continued.The NDSC Information Team Leader added that another point is that the United States issued a statement dated 12 November. This is the statement we came across today. In this statement, it says that the United States has formed the District of Columbia Centre.Strike Force (SCSF) to protect the US against telecom fraud schemes. When the announcement was examined, it’s found that it states the strike force was established to safeguard the United States from cyber-fraud activities, including cryptocurrency-related scams, based mainly in Southeast Asian countries.There are some notable phrases in the statement that it’s needed to point out. One unusual phrase appears in the third paragraph, where it alleges that transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) operating through China are using cryptocurrency investments, fraudulent schemes, and various types of deception to steal the savings and livelihoods of Americans daily.Another section claims that scam centers are enriching “Chinese criminal networks” across generations by funneling money from the United States into their pockets. It also mentions Myanmar, stating that a group called Strike Force Burma carried out operations against two scam centers in Myanmar.As for how they conducted those operations – or whether they actually did . There has also been no evidence of such operations on the ground. The statement further claims that FBI agents were sent to Bangkok to work with the Royal Thai Police War Room Task Force to help dismantle fraud hubs in Myanmar, including places like KK Park. What it is presenting here is taken directly from their two-page statement.When these points are analyzed, it’s assessed that, rather than simply focusing on combating online fraud and online gambling – as they claim – the country may have a deeper hidden agenda behind these actions. As for Myanmar, in the northeastern Laukkai region, China–Myanmar Joint Task Force was formed to address online gambling and telecom fraud operations, and it is continue to implement those measures.In addition, in Kayin State’s Myawady area, the Myanmar-Thailand-China Trilateral Cooperation mechanism has been established, and that cooperation is still ongoing. On 14 November 2025, Myanmar delegation attended the six-nation meeting held in Kunming, China, where China, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam discussed joint efforts to combat telecom fraud.Myanmar is also cooperating with this group. What’d like to emphasize here is that telecom fraud and online gambling do not harm only Myanmar. These crimes also target people from many countries around the world – anyone who can be deceived.As a matter of national responsibility, Acting President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has instructed that these crimes must be addressed firmly.He has also spoken clearly about this during public meetings. This is a serious issue. Therefore, we urge all Myanmar citizens and all media organizations: if you receive any information related to telecom fraud or online gambling, please report it to the relevant authorities.Let us work together to confront this problem. The Government of Myanmar also want to state that the country will continue cooperating with the six-nation joint task forces and regional mechanisms to eliminate telecom fraud and online gambling operations from Myanmar’s territory and will work to root out these activities entirely.
Acts of terrorism propagating a wide range of hateful ideologies continue to injure, harm and kill thousands of innocent people each year. Terrorists show no regard for the lives, safety, or well-being of civilians in their armed conflicts, focusing solely on carrying out acts of terror to serve their own interests.While countries around the world widely condemn terrorism, victims and survivors often struggle to have their voices heard, their needs met, and their rights protected. Many feel overlooked once the immediate aftermath of an attack passes, which can have lasting effects on their physical and mental well-being. Few United Nations Member States have the resources or capacities to address the needs of victims for full recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society. Most victims require multi-dimensional support to cope with trauma and rebuild their lives.Nevertheless, the public should not passively tolerate or submit to the actions of terrorists. It is important to recognize that their collective strength is a powerful force. Only when the people stand together in unity can they overcome and defeat any form of actions of terrorism. What is needed is a firm determination among all of them to relentlessly combat and eradicate the ideology of terrorism.Member States bear the primary responsibility for supporting victims of terrorism and upholding their rights. The United Nations assists them in implementing the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy by providing capacity-building support, technical assistance, and establishing networks. It also supports civil society organizations, including those representing victims. Indeed, it is necessary to encourage Member States to promote, protect, and respect the rights of victims.To commemorate the eighth International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, the United Nations will host a pre-recorded high-level virtual event titled “United by Hope: Collective Action for Victims of Terrorism.” This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of solidarity and collaboration across communities, regions, and experiences. The International Day calls on everyone to listen to, support, and stand with victims in building a more inclusive, resilient, and peaceful future.In this regard, everybody needs to focus on their actions leading to the interests of people. If even their acts are legitimate, they have to analyze their actions to determine whether these might be similar to terror acts and their impacts or not. They need to always consider the lives of innocent civilians to avoid intentional or unintentional acts of violence against them. It is because those innocent people do not have any arms or tactics to fight terrorists in ordinary times.Nevertheless, the public should not passively tolerate or submit to the actions of terrorists. It is important to recognize that their collective strength is a powerful force. Only when the people stand together in unity can they overcome and defeat any form of actions of terrorism. What is needed is a firm determination among all of them to relentlessly combat and eradicate the ideology of terrorism.Share this post
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