Myanmar Junta Imposes Martial Law in Dozens of Townships

The Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s military regime has declared martial law in 63 townships across the country, signalling deep insecurity ahead of elections planned for late this year.

The sweeping order, issued Thursday by the junta-led National Defence and Security Council, affects regions that have seen intense resistance activity, including parts of Kachin, Karenni, Karen, Rakhine, Shan and Chin states, as well as the Sagaing, Mandalay and Magwe regions.

Officially described as a measure to “ensure law enforcement and stability,” the martial law declaration reveals just how little control the military holds beyond key towns. In at least 46 of the affected townships, resistance groups are reported to be in full control. In 16 more, the junta governs only the towns, with rural areas dominated by opposition forces.

The move casts further doubt on the regime’s ability to stage credible elections in December or January. Its election commission says polls will be held in the remaining 267 townships, but with much of the country outside military control, such plans appear increasingly symbolic.

“The regime will attempt to hold elections in at least half of the townships under martial law, using whatever means are available,” said Zin Yaw, a former army captain who defected after the 2021 coup.

The regime is also reportedly seeking Chinese mediation to reclaim territory lost to the Brotherhood Alliance in northern Shan State. In areas like Myingyan District in central Myanmar, local reports suggest voting would only be possible in the town centre, with resistance forces active in surrounding areas.

Meanwhile, the opposition National Unity Government claims 144 townships are now under resistance control, with a further 79 experiencing regular clashes.

In Mon State, where martial law has not yet been declared, local resistance groups have issued warnings to civil servants who cooperate with the regime’s election plans.

Analysts see the declaration as both a security tactic and a signal that the junta, besieged on multiple fronts, may struggle to maintain the facade of nationwide elections. The coming months are likely to test both its control and the resilience of the resistance.

-2025-08-02