The Irrawaddy

 

Arakan Army leader Major General Tun Myat Naing has robustly dismissed allegations of drug trafficking and human rights abuses in a wide-ranging interview with The Irrawaddy, defending his group’s conduct and calling for nuanced understanding of the Rohingya issue.

 

Speaking from Rakhine State, Tun Myat Naing said legal efforts to prosecute him internationally over alleged abuses were “lawfare” and better addressed within the Arakan People’s Revolutionary Government’s own judicial system. He acknowledged isolated misconduct by AA soldiers but insisted such cases were punished and did not reflect official policy.

 

“We neither violate human rights nor permit it,” he said, adding that collective punishment was never imposed. He stressed that peace and development in Rakhine depended on stability and inclusive governance.

 

On accusations of discrimination against the Rohingya, the general said his administration aims to include all communities in civil services, healthcare, education, and disaster response. While Rohingya participation in military operations remains limited due to past breaches of trust, he said integration efforts are underway, including legal and administrative training.

 

He criticised international narratives around the Rohingya identity, arguing that historical interpretations vary and that international law is often used by powerful nations to pressure smaller ones. “Every citizen must respect their own country’s laws,” he said.

 

Addressing militant threats, Tun Myat Naing claimed the Myanmar junta has armed groups to destabilise AA-held areas, with some operating from refugee camps near the Bangladeshi border. He alleged that around 4,500 militants have been recruited, some trained in madrasas with extremist ideologies. Despite provocations, he said AA seeks a patient and diplomatic approach with Bangladesh.

 

The general also highlighted divisions among Rohingya communities, noting that those inside Rakhine are more inclined toward peaceful coexistence, while some exiled activists and madrasa-influenced groups promote conflict. “It’s like a layered cake,” he said, describing the complexity of views across regions.

 

Tun Myat Naing concluded by reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance and long-term peace, while rejecting what he called sensationalised accusations from overseas lobbyists.

 

 

-2025-10-06

Wonder where they get their money from ? Wars are  expensive.