CNI News
5 December 2023
The battles breaking out between the Tatmadaw and the Arakan Army (AA) in Rakhine and Chin States could continue, U Myo Kyaw, spokesperson of the United Nationalities Alliance (UNA) told CNI News.
The nationalism of the Rakhine people came to the forefront after the AA troops entered Rakhine state, he said.
" Nationalism of Rakhine people has become active after the AA troops arrived in Rakhine State because they had to be suffering from poverty and hardship for many years. They don't want to live like that anymore. In the meantime, when the AA also stood up before the people and started fighting for the people, the people are heartily satisfied with it as well. They want the AA to win clearly. It is the demand of the public for their suffering. We agree with the people's request." said U Myo Kyaw.
Battles resumed between the Tatmadaw and the AA in Rakhine State on 13th November 2023. Moreover, the battles are breaking out in Paletwa Township as well.
Maj-Gen Zaw Min Tun
The battles were taking place between the two sides and the AA captured some police stations, said Maj-Gen Zaw Min Tun, leader of the Information Team of the Tatmadaw.
" The battles are taking place in some places of Rakhine State. The AA has captured some police stations. They have waged operations by firing on towns and villages for no reason. The AA group that has never done anything good has said that it is trying for the liberation of Rakhine State and for the Rakhine people. But we need to seriously think about whether it is right." he said.
Maungdaw Township, where there is no fighting at present, is also short of goods and the people there are finding it difficult to get food, a resident of Maungdaw, told CNI News.
While the IDPs in Rakhine State are being seen
" The goods are completely out of stock. Those who have something to eat can eat. Those who have nothing to eat can't eat. The people haven't been able to go anywhere because the roads have been closed since 13th November. That's why it happened. If we have to go on like this, we will have to eat only rice without anything edible. But the people in some places can't find even rice." he said.
The battles between the two sides are currently breaking out in Rathedaung, Kyauktaw, Minbya, Mrauk U, Ponnagyun Townships, Rakhine State as well as in Paletwa Township, Chin State.
Moreover, in collaboration with other EAOs, the AA is fighting against the Tatmadaw in Sagaing Region and in northern Shan State.
