Hi folks, The armed resistance is making significant strides, capturing regime stations and major towns weekly. At the same time, the economy continues to suffer from the junta’s mismanagement. Read the highlights below:
Internal Politics
- NUG prime minister declared Spring Revolution at its peak
Prime Minister Mann Win Khaing Than of the NUG announced on August 8 that the Spring Revolution has reached its strongest point yet, during the commemoration of the 8888 Uprising. He emphasized that the revolution is now at its most powerful and that alliances are more united than ever before in history. Despite more than three and a half years having passed since the coup d’état, the prime minister noted that support for the revolution and its spirit remain undiminished. He reiterated that the movement is committed to eradicating military tyranny, with a focus on building a federal union and advancing democracy. The revolutionaries are determined to continue their struggle until the fall of their common enemy, the military dictatorship. Currently, the People’s Defense Force under the NUG Ministry of Defense, is conducting operations in collaboration with ethnic armed forces. These joint efforts have led to the successful capture and control of Mokot and Sukoo in Mandalay.
- KIO leader advocates political dialogue only in the correct way
On August 10, General N’ban La, Chairman of the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO), called for a political solution to Myanmar’s conflict, despite the ongoing armed struggle. Speaking on Kachin Martyrs’ Day, he acknowledged that armed resistance has been necessary due to the authoritarian policies of successive Burmese governments but expressed readiness to pursue dialogue if a viable path emerges. He emphasized the importance of education, healthcare, and security in KIA-controlled areas, warning residents to stay alert for air attacks by the military council. Recent operations, bolstered by ethnic community support and allied revolutionary groups, have led to the capture of over a hundred military council camps in Kachin State. Kachin Martyrs’ Day honors the memory of General Zaw Sai, a KIO/KIA founder, assassinated on August 10, 1975.
- Residents fled Mandalay amid fears of escalating conflicts
Many residents of Pyin Oo Lwin, also known as May Myo, in the Mandalay Region are fleeing to Mandalay due to fears of an impending conflict after the deployment of military council troops. Locals reported that soldiers from the military council entered and stationed themselves at Yadanapape Cyber City University on the outskirts of the city in the morning of August 8. The university, situated on high ground between Pyin Sa Village and Thon Taung Village, offers a strategic view over Mandalay City, leading residents to believe the military may be seeking an advantage. Naung Cho town, located about 35 miles northeast of Pyin Oo Lwin, is under the control of the Ta’an Army (TNLA). Additionally, Patheingyi township, situated between Pyin Oo Lwin and Mandalay, is facing attacks from the National Unity Government (NUG) troops. In response to the ongoing conflict, the military council has increased security measures over the past few months. With the recent troop movements and preparations for potential military action, some residents are fleeing in fear.
- The regime to discuss amendment of 2008 Constitution with political parties
On August 8, political parties confirmed that preliminary negotiations on amending the 2008 Constitution and upcoming elections will take place in Nay Pyi Taw on August 21 and 22. These talks will involve political parties, the National Unity and Peacemaking Coordination Committee (NSPNC) composed of military council members, and ethnic armed groups that have signed ceasefire agreements. U Sai Ai Phum, Chairman of the Shan Nationalities Democratic Party, stated that his party will focus on federal issues for ethnic groups during the discussions. An official from the People’s Party suggested that electoral issues might take precedence over constitutional amendments at the meeting. The talks will include 16 working groups selected from over forty political parties, along with four parties formed for peace talks, the military council, and seven ethnic armed groups. However, not all political parties competing in the election will participate.The National Unity Government (NUG) and various ethnic militias opposing the coup have declared the 2008 constitution invalid and rejected the upcoming election.
- Military-sponsored protests against China emerged
In the morning of August 6, military supporters and nationalist extremists, backed by the military council led by coup leader Min Aung Hlaing, staged an anti-China demonstration in downtown Yangon. The protest occurred simultaneously in front of City Hall and in Nay Pyi Taw. The demonstration followed a speech by Min Aung Hlaing, in which he hinted at China’s involvement in the recent losses suffered by the Kokang ethnic army MNDAA, including the fall of key military bases in Northern Shan State. Protesters carried banners with slogans such as “eradicate terrorist groups” and chanted racist slogans targeting Chinese influences, including references to the “militant MNDAA” and “Yunnan-Chinese terrorists,” as reported by military-affiliated channels. The protests were framed as opposition to what they described as the “terrorist acts of the MNDAA and their affiliates,” who they claimed were responsible for the deaths of over 100 civilians. The demonstration comes in the wake of Min Aung Hlaing’s televised speech the day before where he blamed the military’s setbacks in Northern Shan State on the foreign-provided weapons, technology, and supplies supporting the revolutionary forces.
International Affairs
- MAH to coordinate ASEAN-Russia relations
Min Aung Hlaing announced on August 8, that he will take on the role of coordinating relations between Russia and ASEAN member countries for a four-year term from 2024 to 2027. This new role follows his previous position as the coordinator for ASEAN-China relations from 2021 to 2024, where he claimed to have strengthened ties between ASEAN and China. Since the military coup, Min Aung Hlaing has cultivated close ties with Russia, leading to increased military aid and economic investments from the country. However, political analyst U Than Soe Naing pointed out that some ASEAN countries have uneasy relations with Russia, which could limit the effectiveness of the regime’s coordination efforts. After the coup, ASEAN member states have restricted Myanmar’s military-appointed Foreign Minister from attending ASEAN meetings, signaling broader regional concerns over Myanmar’s political situation.
- Thai ambassador offered election support to the regime
Military-controlled media reported On August 7 that the Thai ambassador to Myanmar visited Nay Pyi Taw that day, offering assistance to the military council for the upcoming election and the census scheduled for October. Ambassador Mongkol Visitstump, who assumed his role in December 2022 following Myanmar’s military coup, made this proposal during a private meeting with the Chairman of the regime’s Election Commission and the Minister of Immigration. During the meeting, the Thai ambassador inquired about the conditions under which Thailand could assist in conducting the election. Additionally, the Thai government expressed a willingness to cooperate with both the Election Commission of Thailand and the regime’s Election Commission. The military council has announced plans to hold elections following the census in October. However, the NUG has repeatedly urged the international community, including ASEAN, not to recognize the military council’s election.
- India to investigate frequent explosions at the India-Myanmar border
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced on August 3 that the recurring landmine explosions along the India-Myanmar border will be thoroughly investigated. According to the Hindustan Times, Singh stated that he would submit a report to relevant departments, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, urging them to take necessary measures. The issue was raised during a state assembly meeting, where a lawmaker reported that the explosions are most frequent between mileposts 91 and 94 along the border. These landmines are believed to have been planted by armed groups in Myanmar, aiming to intimidate locals living near the border. Chief Minister Singh has taken the matter seriously and intends to communicate with the Home Ministry separately to ensure swift action. This comes after a tragic incident on July 28, when two Burmese civilians returning to Tamu Township in Sagaing Region were killed by a landmine between mileposts 91 and 92.
Business Matters
- Ooredoo Myanmar set to transfer to new owner at the end of 2024
Ooredoo Myanmar is set to be renamed and transferred to its new owner, Nine Communications Company, by the end of this year. A former employee with eight years at the company revealed to Myanmar Now that the new name will be announced on August 16, and business transactions have been underway for several months. The transition follows the sale of Ooredoo Myanmar by its Qatar-based parent company to Nine Communications in September 2022 for $576 million. After nearly two years, preparations for the handover are now in progress. Nine Communications is owned by U Nyan Win, who brings 40 years of experience in the communications sector, and the Link Family Office. The company was registered with Singapore’s Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) in the second week of July 2022. Reports indicate that U Zaw Win Sehin, the head of Aya Hintha Group and a figure connected to the military coup, was also involved in the acquisition of Ooredoo Myanmar.
- The regime investigated companies following the arrest of MFTB officials
Following the arrest of Daw Kaythi, managing director of the Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank (MFTB), along with several officials, the military council has summoned nearly 100 companies that received bank loans for examination. Ongoing inspections are being conducted on additional companies. In the second week of July, after the arrest of Daw Kaythi, her personal assistant Daw Myat Su, Deputy General Manager U Aung Ko Oo, and Assistant Manager Daw Aye Aye Khaing, companies were called in for inspection starting July 19. An employee from a Yangon-based company reported that the inspections took place in batches at the MFTB headquarters in Kyauktada Township, primarily focusing on how much loan funding was allocated for upcoming business operations. Records obtained by Myanmar Now and leaked office letters to the Yangon New Times indicate that up to 97 companies have received loans from MFTB. Some of these companies allegedly forged certificates to secure loans from the state-owned bank. As the investigation into the forged contracts continues, all 97 loan companies and their directors have been barred from transferring their assets. The affected companies span various sectors, including import-export, construction, and energy industries.
- Central Bank mandates 25% export earnings conversion to MMK
On August 7, the Central Bank of the junta announced that exporters must now exchange 25% of their earnings for Myanmar kyats, effective August 8. This new directive reduces the previous requirement of 35%. An exporter in Yangon mentioned that the reduction will have minimal impact, as the conversion uses the Central Bank’s fixed rate of 2100 kyats per US dollar, far below the market rate of 5,500 kyats. Following the coup, the central bank had initially required 35% conversion due to a US dollar shortage. Despite this, the exchange rate remains unstable. The regime also continues to enforce actions against non-compliant exporters and importers.
- Record high gold prices and USD continue
The price of gold i has hit an all-time high as the US dollar surged past 6,000 MMK. On August 9, the value of one kyatta (tical) of gold exceeded 7 Million Myanmar kyats. In the blackmarket of dollar trading market, the US dollar’s value spiked from 5,500 kyats to 6,200 kyats between August 8 and 9.
Humanitarian Affairs
- Residents fled in Tanintharyi Region amid military patrols
Residents from five villages in the southern coastal region of Tanintharyi Region are fleeing to safety as the regime’s troops patrol Palaw and Kyunsu townships since August 2, according to the Karen National Union (KNU). The villages affected include Kyoe Taung in Kyunsu Township and Sin Hto Gyi, Sin Hto Nge, Inn Ma Gyi and Nyein Chan Yay Gone in Palaw Township. Pado Saw Elna, KNU’s Myeik-Dawei district secretary, described the situation as dire, stating that displaced people from Kyoe Taung have abandoned their homes to escape the conflict. Following the arrival of military forces, aid to those fleeing the violence in Palaw Township has become increasingly challenging. Tensions remain high in several villages near Palaw, which is located over 20 miles north of the township. This area falls within the territory of the KNU’s Brigade 4.
- MNDAA released over 1,000 family members of prisoners of war
According to military sources cited by RFA, the Kokang army MNDAA has released more than a thousand family members of prisoners of war who were detained at the Northeastern Military Command in Lashio. On August 6, 385 family members were released, followed by the release of 445 individuals on August 7 and an additional 308 on August 8. Video footage sent to RFA on August 8 shows children, women, and the elderly among those released. A military source, speaking anonymously for security reasons, stated that the release of family members is occurring daily. The source said that releases are happening every day, and that other armed groups based in northern Shan are cooperating in the release process, as they are the ones who took the family members of prisoners of war. However, he noted that the actual prisoners of war will remain detained according to the law.
- AA released political prisoners from Thadwe prison
On August 8, the Arakan Army (AA) announced that they will start returning 41 political prisoners to their families, beginning August 6. This follows the AA’s takeover of the Thandwe prison on July 16, during which they safely evacuated 372 prisoners, including 43 political detainees. Seven prisoners were killed during the operation, including two political prisoners who were struck by gunfire from the military council. Among the remaining political prisoners, medical care was provided to those in need, including 17 individuals with injuries. The AA stated that prisoners convicted of crimes will continue to be detained, with their cases to be re-examined and addressed legally.
Attacks on the Junta’s Lackeys & Assets
- Ward administrator and sister shot dead in Mandalay
On the morning of August 6, two women were shot in a wet market in Mandalay City. They were identified as the ward administrator of Aungmyaythazan Township, Daw Phyo Thandar Aung, and her sister, Daw Khine Phone Su. The former died on the spot while the latter passed away from wounds in Mandalay Hospital. Daw Phyo Thandar Aung sought the ward administrator position for her own business intentions following the resignation of the previous administrators after the coup. Throughout her tenure, she led charges against the pro-resistance movement, carried out midnight inspections, blackmailed the public, and her last crime was recruiting for the military.
- MDY-PDF seized crony-owned 5,000-acre gold mining plot in Patheingyi tsp, Mandalay
On August 6, the MDY-PDF conducted an offensive, seizing the Phayaungtaung Gold Mining Plot located in Patheingyi Township, 14 miles northeast of Mandalay City. About 30 regime troops manned the area and abandoned their posts once the PDF attacked them with drop-bombs. The plot is owned by U Maung Ko, the former regime-appointed Mandalay Regional Minister. The plot is 5,400 acres and produced 47,000 tons of gold and silver. On the same night, the regime’s forces retaliated by conducting an airstrike on Phayaungtaung Village, killing seven villagers. MDY-PDF has occupied regime stations located in Patheingyi Township. A Chinese Alpha Cement Factory was also seized by PDF in mid-July and is still controlled by resistance rangers.
- Deputy police chief among those captured in MNDAA in Lashio, Shan-north
On August 6, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) reported that among those it had captured following clashes in Lashio was a high-ranking police officer of the junta, Hla Myo, the deputy police chief of Lashio District, in charge of inspection gates and patrolling in the region. He was given medication and treated in a military hospital, which is under the control of MNDAA. He has recovered along with others who have also been given medical treatment by MNDAA. MNDAA also stated that the junta completely ignored its own men who were captured by MNDAA.
Arbitrary Arrests, Killings & Violence
- Regime’s airstrikes killed 15 including children in PDF-controlled Sintku tsp, Mandalay Region
On August 4 and 5, the junta’s forces reportedly conducted airstrikes on villages in Sintku Township, Mandalay Region, resulting in multiple civilian deaths. Sintku is currently under the control of MDY-PDF. Nweyone Village, 13 miles north of the town, and Kan Taung Village, 18 miles from the town, were targeted on the evening of August 4. Eleven people, including a child, were killed in the former village, while six others were injured. In Kan Taung Village, three people, including a child, died, and 13 more were injured. The junta’s airforce allegedly used internationally banned cluster bombs, according to MDY-PDF. On the following day, another airstrike took place in Latpanhla Village, five miles east of the town, killing one civilian. A village school and a hospital were also destroyed in the attack. The regime denied these accusations, claiming that no aircraft were flying over the areas on those dates.
- Junta’s airstrike killed seven civilians in Patheingyi tsp, Mandalay Region
Around midnight on August 6, the junta’s forces reportedly conducted an airstrike on Phayaungtaung Village, located in Patheingyi Township, Mandalay Region. The aerial attack resulted in at least seven civilian deaths and multiple injuries. The attack came after the gold mining plot in the area fell under the control of MDY-PDF earlier in the day.
- AA evacuated over 4,000 Muslims used as human shields by junta in Maungdaw tsp, Rakhine State
On August 7, the Arakan Army (AA) reported that it had evacuated over 4,000 Muslims who were used as human shields by the junta’s forces during clashes in Maungdaw Township, Rakhine State. The AA released pictures showing people and children carrying backpacks, stating they had been transported to AA-controlled regions. Previously, the AA was accused of attacking and killing Rohingyas who had fled the Maungdaw conflict. The AA denied these accusations and said it is investigating the issue.
- Junta’s artillery killed four civilians in Yinmabin tsp, Sagaing Region
On the evening of August 7, the regime’s forces fired artillery into Htantawgyi Village, Yinmabin Township, Sagaing Region. The attack resulted in four civilian deaths and multiple injuries. The junta’s troops, based in Aung Zeya Myothit, where many retired military personnel live, fired three artillery shells into the village, located on Pathein-Monywa Highway Road. Three men were killed on the spot, and another man died of his wounds the following day. All of the victims were aged between 20 and 40. Five more people were injured, two of whom are now in critical condition.
- DASSK’s bodyguard being detained beyond her sentence
Cherry Htet, a former deputy police officer and bodyguard of State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, had served her sentence and was scheduled to be released on August 9. Her family waited outside Yemathein Prison, where she was serving her sentence, but she was not released. Prison authorities reportedly claimed she needed to serve nine more days. It is unknown whether she will indeed be released after nine more days. The junta has historically and consistently denied the release of political prisoners even after their sentences have been served. Cherry Htet was arrested in September 2021 and sentenced to a total of five years in prison: three years under police disciplinary charges and two years under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code.
Armed Resistance
- Chin forces occupied regime station in Thantlang, Chin State
On the morning of August 5, Chin allied forces reportedly seized the junta’s Infantry Battalion Unit 269, based in Thantlang Town, Chin State. The regime has seven infantry units in Thantlang, Hakha District, on the border of India-Myanmar, and this is one of them. Starting July 22, the Chin forces conducted an offensive, attacking junta stations located along the Thantlang-Hakha highway. Following the fall of the station, the regime’s forces conducted two airstrikes on Thantlang Town the next morning. Additionally, Hakha-based junta strategic Hill fired numerous artillery rounds. As of now, Chin forces are conducting a ground clearance operation in the station.
- TNLA and allies seized Kyaukme Town, Shan-north
On the morning of August 6, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) reportedly seized the remaining regime stations in Kyaukme Town, northern Shan State, effectively gaining complete control of the town. The offensive on Kyaukme began in late June, when TNLA managed to occupy many areas of the town, leaving only a few junta stations until early August. On August 6, the remaining troops abandoned their stations along with family members, heading to southern Shan State. Kyaukme has become the fourth town TNLA has seized, following Naungcho, Mongmit, and Mogok in the second wave of Operation 1027. It is a strategic town for Myanmar-China border trade, located on the Mandalay-Muse Road, and remains cut off from telecommunications.
- Regime plan defense of Shan-south
The junta has reportedly planned strategies to defend against the TNLA forces entering southern Shan State. The TNLA controls Naungcho Town, and the regime is wary of them entering Lawksawk and Bahtoo Townships in southern Shan State. The TNLA has also reported the regime’s reinforcement south of Naungcho, leading to skirmishes. However, the junta’s forces are not currently capable of regaining Naungcho Town, according to an MDY-PDF spokesperson, an ally of TNLA.
- MDY-PDF seized eight regime stations in Thabeikkyin tsp, Mandalay Region
On August 10, the MDY-PDF reported that it had occupied up to eight regime military stations in Thabeikkyin Township, Mandalay Region. These include Infantry Battalion Unit 148, Kyaukphyuywa Station, Laikkyaywa Station, Kwinthonesalywa Station, Latpanpyantywa Station, Phokone Station, Watthayywa Station, and Phatshayywa Station. The MDY-PDF stated it would continue attacking the remaining targets on its mission. On July 31, the MDY-PDF also reported seizing 35 regime military stations in Mattaya Township.
- Regime forces in Maungdaw still holding against AA
The clash between the Arakan Army (AA) and the junta’s forces in Maungdaw Township, Rakhine State, has lasted over three months. The AA is still struggling to fully capture the township due to the regime’s intense defense, including airstrikes. Along with junta forces, individual Rohingyas, the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), and the Rohingya Solidarity Organization (RSO) are fighting against the AA. On August 4, the AA seized the military station in Maungni Village, one mile from the town, and on August 7, the offensive on the town began. Thousands of Rohingyas have been displaced due to the intensifying clashes in Maungdaw.
- Regime’s airforce bombed KIA hq in Laizar, Kachin State
Around midnight on August 8, the junta’s air force conducted an airstrike on Laizar Town, the headquarters of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), located on the China-Myanmar border in Kachin State. The bomb dropped in Maisatpar Village, where internally displaced people resided, injuring a 20-year-old pregnant woman. Additionally, the explosions destroyed some houses and a church. The bombing came at a time when the KIA and allied forces mounted an offensive to capture the regime’s station in Momaunk Township, located in southern Kachin State.
- Thousands of people displaced due to regime offensive in Kantbalu tsp, Sagaing Region
Military-sponsored Pyu Saw Htee forces have reportedly conducted an offensive in the south of Kantbalu Township, Sagaing Region. The offensive, consisting of over 200 men and led by military supporter Monk Wahthawa, began on July 25. They are camped in Nyaungzingyi Village and engage in daily clashes against resistance forces. On the first day of the launch, three villagers were killed by drone and artillery attacks. Over 400 households have been burned down in the operation. The Kantbalu-based regime tank station 6006 is aiding them with artillery fire.
Sources: Myanmar Now, Khit Thit Media, RFA Burmese, DVB, Irrawaddy, Mizzima News
