CNI News

March 4, 2026

Ethnic groups told CNI News that it would be better if the State Government prioritized ethnic unity and provided the best support to ethnic armed groups with a magnanimous and "fatherly" attitude.

A Naga ethnic individual stated that because the country is moving toward a federal system, ethnic organizations must be recognized according to their respective states, and the central government can no longer maintain total dominance.

He said, "Taking up arms and revolting is about preserving our own cultural customs and protecting our own territories. That is why they are armed. Ethnic armed groups are not rebels. The Myanmar Military usually refers to them as rebels, but they are not. Since they are organizations protecting their own people, they will continue to exist. Regarding this, I believe it would be better if the State Government acted with a broad-minded, mature, and fatherly spirit toward its own 'children'—the ethnic people and their regions—by developing them, providing the best care, and prioritizing ethnic unity instead of pursuing chauvinism. When the Military tries to keep ethnic armed groups only as People’s Militia or Border Guard Forces, there is no reason for them to accept it. For instance, there must be a Kachin Army, and similarly, there must be a Naga Army. If the Federal Army and State Armies can negotiate and integrate, only then will the federalism Myanmar desires be successful. The current way of 'bundling' everything into a federal label—like giving a child pocket money just to show the world—is unacceptable to me as an ethnic person."

KIA Lieut-Gen Gun Maw seen with the Chin Brotherhood.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing stated that armed conflicts have emerged within the country because attempts were made to solve political problems through violent means rather than political solutions.

Similarly, he said that some Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) are striving to control and govern territories, and are benefiting themselves by illegally extracting and selling natural resources and drugs.

Political analyst Dr. Aung Myo told CNI News that ethnic armed groups should demand the rights they want through peaceful democratic means and that there is no reason to take up arms.

He said, "To be honest, they are using beautiful words for all the rights they want. There is every reason to demand what you want through peaceful democratic methods and political means. There is no reason to be armed. Regarding the concept of being a 'dutiful father,' it doesn't mean just standing by and watching without fighting back. In terms of administration, a country cannot be split into two. Therefore, the way forward is to demand everything they desire through peaceful and political means. Their claims that they must act this way because the government is not 'fatherly' are just a justification. In reality, we cannot accept these words."

Currently, intense fighting is taking place across Myanmar between the Myanmar Military and armed groups.

Leaders of UWSA, SSPP, and NDAA seen with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

In these armed conflicts, the KIA is providing arms and ammunition to the Arakan Army (AA), Chin (CNF), Naga armed groups, PDFs, Kuki (KNO), and the Student Army (ABSDF), carrying out "town-seizure" battles in Kachin State, Sagaing Region, and Northern Shan State.

KIA leader Lieut-Gen Gun Maw stated that to ensure the security of KIA territories in Kachin State, they must fight the enemy from Sagaing Region. He mentioned that by implementing the "Ka Thone Lone" operation (Kantbalu-Kawlin-Katha) in Sagaing, they must control the northern and lower regions of Myanmar.

Furthermore, he stated that as ethnic armed groups move past 2025, their considerations will extend beyond federalism.

Currently, the AA expects a "Confederation" level at minimum and will go as far as independence; the TNLA has stated they must prepare to establish a state; and the MNDAA is working to retake and rebuild its Special Region.

Some Karen armed groups have announced the establishment of "Kawthoolei State," while the UWSA has established a separate administrative system, building self-rule and self-determination.

Naga armed groups also aim to unite Naga people from both Myanmar and India to establish a "Free Naga Federation" or a "Naga Nation."

CNI News

March 3, 2026

The Information Team of the National Defense and Security Council (NDSC) issued an announcement today (March 3) stating that, starting from March 7, private vehicles must follow an odd-even license plate system based on the date to conserve fuel.

The report notes that due to current global political situations and military conflicts in the Middle East, there are barriers and blockades along the maritime routes used by fuel tankers. Consequently, to ensure fuel sufficiency and conservation, private vehicles, commercial vehicles, and transport vehicles must adhere to specific regulations starting March 7, 2026.

Under these rules, only private vehicles with license plates matching the date of the month may be driven:

Even Days: Vehicles with "Even" plate letters (e.g., 2A/----, 4A/----). Odd Days: Vehicles with "Odd" plate letters (e.g., 1A/----, 3A/----).

The following vehicles are exempt from these restrictions and may be driven daily: Electric Vehicles (EVs): Both EV cars and EV motorcycles.

Public Services: Public transport buses, Taxis, fuel tankers, construction vehicles, and freight trucks.

Emergency & Utility: Ambulances, funeral hearses, and municipal garbage trucks.

The announcement also warns fuel entrepreneurs and the general public strictly against hoarding fuel or price gouging.

These regulations will remain in effect until further notice. Authorities stated that anyone found violating these rules will face legal action in accordance with existing laws.

CNI News

3 March 2026

With a view toward human rights, the State Government issued a statement on March 2, 2026, granting amnesty to over 7,000 prisoners/detainees serving sentences in various prisons, jails, and camps.

Included in this amnesty are several individuals who served as ministers under the National League for Democracy (NLD) government:

U Min Thu (Minister of the Union Government Office),Dr. Myo Aung (Chairman of the Nay Pyi Taw Council),U Han Tun (Yangon Region Minister of Agriculture and Livestock),Daw Moe Moe Su Kyi (Yangon Region Minister of Immigration and Human Resources),U Ye Min Oo (Nay Pyi Taw Deputy Mayor and Yangon Region Minister of Economy).

CNI News

March 3, 2026

Pu Pu Htan, spokesperson for the Zomi National Party (ZNP), told CNI News that any potential agreement between the Indian government and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) could pose a significant danger to Myanmar’s political landscape.

On February 5, 2026, KIA leader Lieutenant General Gun Maw stated that after implementing and controlling the "Ka-Thone-Lone" operation (covering Kantbalu, Kawlin, and Katha) in the Sagaing Region, the KIA would proceed to control the entire northern and southern regions.

He claimed that they are currently working to stabilize and control the entire northern area, including the Kachin unit, Chin unit, Naga unit, and the "Ka-Thone-Lone" area. He added that once the upper region is secured, the lower region can be easily controlled.

Pu Pu Htan (ZNP) remarked that the KIA’s plan would be difficult to implement without the assistance of a neighboring government. He suggested that if India is attempting to secure rare earth minerals from the KIA, Lieutenant General Gun Maw’s predictions could become a reality.

Indian Prime Minister Modi, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"We don’t know to what extent they have reached agreements with the Indian government. It’s not easy without the help of a foreign country. Geopolitically, Chin State is vital. However, without the involvement of the Indian or Chinese governments in their armed struggle, it’s unlikely to materialize. This could also be propaganda. On the surface, the Indian government isn’t at a stage where it can be fully trusted; they [the KIA] could become tools if they aren't careful. It depends on India’s policy. If India is focused on acquiring rare earth minerals, what Lt. Gen. Gun Maw said could happen. India could use the KIA and Chin groups. It’s not as easy as Gun Maw says for him to do it alone. But we must be cautious about the level of understanding he has with the Indian government. If an agreement has been reached, it is dangerous—very dangerous."

In December 2025, the U.S.-based Silicon Valley Times reported that a secret investigation revealed a confidential agreement between India and the KIA. The report stated that this agreement involves strategic cooperation for rare earth mineral extraction while Myanmar’s sovereignty is weakened.

Furthermore, in his February 5, 2026, speech, Lieutenant General Gun Maw emphasized that they are prioritizing Chin State affairs, believing that Chin State’s resources could lead to nationwide success. He stated they are working diligently for the liberation of the entire Chin State.

Rare earth minerals.

Regarding these comments on Chin State, U Soe Htet, Chairman of the Chin National Congress Party (NCC), told CNI that while it’s unclear if a major power is influencing the situation, Chin State is geographically close to both Bangladesh and India.

"Kachin State is closest to China. Our Chin State is close to both India and Bangladesh. So, we don’t know how the background support is linked. In reality, Mizoram and Manipur states in India are areas where many Chin people reside. Thus, there could be cross-border interactions and mutual assistance. Kachin is close to China. Historically, Kachins and Chins are kindred, and they support each other in military operations. We cannot know the details of whether a major power is influencing this."

The Silicon Valley Times previously reported that India is constructing a 365-km road from Vijaynagar in Arunachal Pradesh to rare earth mines in Chipwi, Kachin State. This road, allegedly built without the Myanmar government's permission, would allow India to access rare earth resources in exchange for providing weapons, medicine, and other logistical support to the KIA.

The Ledo Road.

The partnership agreement reportedly includes a secret plan to build a second strategic corridor connecting the KIA headquarters in Laiza through Sagaing Region to Rihkhawdar in Chin State. Funding for this corridor would allegedly come from illegal timber smuggling networks, ensuring long-term exports of rare earth minerals, oil, and teak to India.

The report also claimed that India’s military support—including advanced weapon systems and medical supplies sent via Arunachal Pradesh—has enhanced the KIA's capabilities in its confrontation with the Myanmar military. In return, the KIA reportedly promised to crack down on anti-India insurgent groups, including the NSCN-K/YA, and quietly supported Indian claims in the disputed Chin State and Kabaw Valley regions.

However, the KIA has denied these allegations.

CNI News

February 28, 2026

In Myanmar, political parties and political analysts are discussing what kinds of political and military developments may emerge under the new government that will take office following the election.

Myanmar’s 2025 General Election was held in three phases from December 28, 2025, to January 25, 2026.

The third sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw will be convened on March 16 and 18, 2026, respectively, and the new government will be formed in April.

Political analyst U Kyaw Htet told CNI News that once a civilian government emerges, it will need to change its approach to negotiations.

 Only then can positive progress be expected.

He added that the new government should amend Section 261 and include widely accepted ethnic leaders in the cabinet. 

By doing so, it may be able to influence the positions of Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs).

Political parties meeting among themselves

He said:

“When a civilian government comes to power, we need to shift toward a negotiation-based approach. For example, political commitments such as amending Section 261 and revising the Constitution should be prioritized. The third Hluttaw should amend laws to better align with federal principles demanded by ethnic groups. If the government includes widely accepted ethnic leaders in its cabinet and works toward national unity, the attitudes of EAOs may change. The international community’s perception would also improve. In that case, we can hope for positive developments.

However, if Section 261 and other laws are not amended, if negotiations demanded by all ethnic groups are not implemented in parliament, and if ethnic leaders who should be included in the government are excluded, the conflict will likely continue as it is now. If all sides can move toward federalism and establish clearer frameworks for dialogue and participation, armed conflict may gradually decrease. Otherwise, the conflicts will persist. The new government will also have to bear the consequences of the 2021 conflicts, which may hinder and delay nation-building and state-building efforts.”

Military and political observers also pointed out that the new government should negotiate amendments to key constitutional provisions and invite non-NCA signatory groups for dialogue.

According to analysts, the first major challenge for the new government will be addressing armed conflict and the suffering of the people. 

Sai Htay Aung, Chairman of the Tai-Leng (Shanni) Nationalities Development Party (TNDP), told CNI News that he hopes for a strong yet flexible government.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing meeting with political parties

He said:

“The idea of collective leadership is a good one. If we move forward with collective leadership, trust will increase. A government based on collective leadership could become a strong government. In the past, when the NLD won by a landslide, they formed the government themselves. Under President Thein Sein, when forming the government, state-level winners and representatives from winning parties were included in the cabinet. We don’t yet know whether the new government will follow that model or include party leaders instead. If leading figures from various parties are included, collective leadership will be stronger.

A government must be strong. If it firmly upholds its policies but applies flexible and gentle strategies, it can become more effective for the country. The first challenge for the new government will be how to resolve armed conflict and address the suffering of the people. We hope for a strong government that can also act with flexibility and gentleness.”

Observers believe that new political and military dynamics may emerge under the new government taking office in April. 

Territorial battles involving ethnic armed groups may expand. The government may launch offensives to regain lost territories, while also making peace overtures.

Additionally, analysts suggest that the new government may work to revive the declining economy, control rising commodity prices, reopen border trade routes, and stabilize the hotel and tourism sectors.

CNI News

28 February 2026

In Myanmar, peace should not be something done merely for appearance’s sake, but rather a genuine win-win outcome where both sides benefit, said U Khun Sai, who is involved in the peace process, in an interview with CNI News.

He said, “From what we are hearing, when the new government is formed, there are plans to restart the peace process. At the very least, one side needs to genuinely act, and the other side also needs to demonstrate to the public that they are truly making efforts. So peace must indeed be pursued.

However, what we hope for is not something done just for show, but a real solution where both sides benefit and both sides are satisfied. As Martin Smith, a scholar on Burma, once said, we have been fighting for nearly 80 years. For the opposition, revolution has become a way of life — an ongoing journey. For the Tatmadaw as well, suppressing insurgency has also become a way of life.”

During the five years that the Myanmar military governed the country, NCA ceremonies and peace forums were held.

Participants in the peace process

However, these discussions were conducted only with political parties, ethnic armed organizations that had signed the NCA, and civil society groups — not with armed groups that were actively engaged in fighting on the ground.

Following the political changes in 2021, armed conflict expanded across the country, and the number of armed groups increased.

As the fighting intensified, civilians were forced to abandon their homes and properties and flee to other areas.

Therefore, unless something concrete is done regarding peace, Myanmar will never achieve peace, said U Soe Htet, Chairman of the Chin National Congress Party (NCC), in an interview with CNI News.

He said, “Whether it is through NCA signatories or through renewed peace talks, if nothing is done, our country will never achieve peace. I believe they will eventually come to the negotiating table.

If the revolution continues indefinitely, the people will suffer greatly. They are already exhausted. The revolutionaries are also exhausted. The public has suffered heavily. Our children cannot attend school. Healthcare services cannot be properly provided. People cannot live peacefully in their own homes and villages but are instead living in constant fear.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing meeting with former KNU Chairman Saw Mutu Say Poe

Now people from Chin State, Sagaing Region, Magway Region, Mandalay Region, Naypyitaw Council Area, and Bago Region are being displaced. They want to return to their own areas. No one wants to live elsewhere. They want to return to their regions, do their own work, and live their own lives. Elderly people especially wish to return home.

So I believe those who are leading the revolution, those involved in politics, and the politicians who are in parliament will think carefully and initiate peace discussions.”

In Myanmar, ethnic armed organizations that signed the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) include:

Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS),Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA), Karen National Union/Karen National Liberation Army – Peace Council (KNU/KNLA-PC), Arakan Liberation Party (ALP),Pa-O National Liberation Organization (PNLO),New Mon State Party (NMSP),Chin National Front (CNF),All Burma Students’ Democratic Front (ABSDF),Lahu Democratic Union (LDU),Karen National Union (KNU).

However, after the political changes on February 1, 2021, CNF, ABSDF, and KNU declared the NCA void and withdrew, while PNLO, ALP, LDU, and NMSP split into two factions.

Armed groups that have not signed the NCA include:

United Wa State Army (UWSA),National Democratic Alliance Army (NDAA), Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA),Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), Kachin Independence Army (KIA),Shan State Progress Party (SSPP),Arakan Army (AA), Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP).

CNI News

February 28, 2026

Naga forces are working to reunify the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang/Ang Mai (NSCN-K/AM) and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang/Yung Aung (NSCN-K/YA) into a single organization.

While NSCN-K/YA and NSCN-K/AM were once a unified entity under the leadership of Baba Khaplang, the group split after his death in 2017. In August 2018, Yung Aung assumed the chairmanship.

Following his takeover, several key figures—including Ang Mai, U Kyaw Wan Sein, Aung Sai, U An Kan, U Saw Htein, Niki Sumi, Starswan, and Nyemlang—were expelled. This led to further splintering: Niki Sumi formed NSCN-K/NK, Aung Sai established ENNO/ENDA, and Ang Mai founded NSCN-K/AM.

According to U Chin Maung, Chairman of the Peace-making Committee for NSCN-K/AM, the two factions are expected to meet at the negotiating table soon to discuss reunification.

Niki Sumi, leader of the NSCN-K/NK faction.

"In the current situation, we are arranging to talk at the table; it will happen soon. If it happens, the two groups are likely to become one again," U Chin Maung told CNI News.

On February 21, 2026, NSCN-K/AM released a statement noting that while they are attempting to engage NSCN-K/YA through Naga literary, cultural, and religious organizations, the Yung Aung faction has been avoiding the meeting citing various reasons.

A "Family Matter" A Naga local told CNI News that the Naga Traditional Cultural Committee plans to lead a coordination committee to facilitate the merger. He views the split as a "family issue."

He noted that while their political visions were initially aligned, disagreements over leadership and misunderstandings led to the divide.

Public Pressure: "They are organizations that survive by relying on the people, so they must listen to the people's voice," the local resident added.

A view of the Naga region.

Currently, the Naga Self-Administered Zone is plagued by leadership and administrative disputes between the factions led by Yung Aung and Ang Mai. 

This division has placed a heavy burden on the local population:

Double Taxation   Residents are forced to pay taxes to both factions, causing significant financial hardship.

Stalled Development Internal conflict prevents focused efforts on regional growth.

Security Concerns Multiple armed groups are active in the area, complicating the safety of the Naga people.

If the groups reunify, locals hope it will end the era of double taxation and allow for political dialogue aimed at regional development.

The Naga Self-Administered Zone remains a complex landscape of various armed actors, including:

Local Factions: NSCN-K/YA, NSCN-K/AM, ENNO/ENDA, and Naga PDF. Indian Armed Groups: NSCN-IM, NSCN-Hashe Yansan, and ZUF. Meitei and Other Groups: PLA and ULFA-(I).

CNI News
February 28, 2026

In Kutkai Township, Northern Shan State, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) intercepted six members of the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and seized their weapons on February 26, 2026.

The six TNLA members were traveling to Manjet Village near Ward (7) of Kutkai. While on a pine forest road, they were stopped and searched by the MNDAA. During the encounter, the TNLA members were reportedly assaulted (punched), and their weapons were confiscated.

CNI News
February 28, 2026

The Digital Myanmar Technology Conference and Exhibition was inaugurated on February 27, 2026, in Pyin Oo Lwin, Mandalay Region, Myanmar.

The opening ceremony was attended by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council (SAC).