Kantarawaddy Times
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has accused ethnic armed groups in Karenni State of destroying their own regions and causing significant damage to towns and villages, including Loikaw, through violent attacks.
In a statement marking the 73rd Kayah State Day, he claimed these groups lack political maturity and are influenced by misguided ideas.
“Acts of violence committed by ethnic armed groups demonstrate a lack of national spirit and political maturity. These actions represent a betrayal of their own regions and ethnic people. Therefore, it is essential for all citizens to unite in restraining the activities of these armed groups that disrupt regional stability, peace, and security.” the Senior General stated in his message.
He further emphasized the need for public awareness, knowledge, and correct thinking to ensure national development and the establishment of a democratic state. According to him, the people themselves must take responsibility for protecting and safeguarding the nation’s interests.
In response, the Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC) rejected the accusations, stating the region’s destruction is the result of the military junta’s power seizure and violent crackdowns on peaceful protests.
“The junta’s obsession with power is the root cause of this destruction. We have no choice but to take up arms because peaceful resistance is ignored. The real problem lies with the junta itself,” said U Byar, Secretary-2 of the IEC.
Since the coup on February 1, 2021, Karenni State has been part of the armed resistance against the military junta, with battles continuing to this day. During a military operation in Loikaw Township, homes in the city were destroyed by artillery fire, airstrikes, and drone bombings by the junta, which led to hundreds of houses burned. Despite this, the junta claims to be re-establishing administrative operations and regional development, often highlighted in propaganda broadcasts.
The Senior General also called on all ethnic groups to work together with national unity and strength, emphasizing the importance of love for the nation, ethnic solidarity, and union spirit. He urged them to protect and defend the country and its people while highlighting the “Three Main National Causes” as guiding principles for long-term stability.
The 73rd Kayah State Day was commemorated from January 13 to 15, with government staff and exhibitions displayed at the state and township halls in Loikaw under tight security, according to local residents.
