CNI News

22 October 2025

National peace and development should remain consistent in terms of policy, even when governments change, said U Ko Ko Gyi from the People’s Party (PP) in an interview with CNI News.

He pointed out that successive governments in Myanmar have often discontinued, modified, or reopened discussions on international cooperation projects initiated by previous administrations. Such practices, he noted, have caused dissatisfaction among foreign investors and led to a decline in trust, resulting in hesitation to invest further in the country.

U Ko Ko Gyi stressed that the government formed after the upcoming election must maintain a unified national policy regarding peace.

“The key point is that the elections are approaching, and when new political dynamics emerge after the election, the elected representatives in parliament and the new government must understand that peace for the nation is a matter that should remain consistent, regardless of who comes to power.If every new government starts doing things differently according to its own preferences, there will be no continuity. That’s why pre-election discussions and consultations are important — to gather ideas and recommendations that can be carried forward into the post-election political process,” he said.

During the administration led by U Than Shwe, Myanmar signed an agreement with China to implement the Myitsone Dam Project. However, under U Thein Sein’s government, the project was suspended due to widespread opposition. Later, when Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s government took office following the 2015 general election, the project was still not resumed. Even under the current military administration, which seized power from the NLD government and declared a state of emergency, the Myitsone project remains suspended.

U Ko Ko Gyi said that peace should continue to be a top national priority, especially as the country is experiencing the most intense phase of armed conflict in recent history.

“We believe that peace will remain a top national priority because the current armed conflicts have reached their most critical point. Although the current government has been implementing certain efforts, the next administration must work even harder and with greater momentum to advance these efforts,” he added.

At present, Myanmar plans to hold Phase 1 of its national elections in 102 townships on December 28, 2025, followed by Phase 2 elections in 100 townships in January 2026.

After that, the Hluttaw (Parliament) will convene in February 2026, and a new government will be formed in March 2026.

CNI News
19 October 2025

Political analysts have pointed out that while all-inclusiveness in peacebuilding sounds good in principle, it may not work well if it becomes influenced by ethnic chauvinism.

They noted that in peace processes, there are diverse ideas, opinions, and approaches.

At the 10th Anniversary Ceremony of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) held on October 15, Major General Zaw Min Tun, spokesperson for the National Defense and Security Council, said that genuine peace can only be achieved through mutual compromise and sincere desire for peace.

Although “all-inclusiveness” sounds appealing, U Ba Shein, Chairman of the Rakhine National Party (RNP), told CNI News that the needs and priorities of different ethnic groups, regions, and local communities vary significantly.

The 10th Anniversary Ceremony of the NCA

He explained:

“People always talk about all-inclusiveness — it’s a nice phrase, and it sounds good. But one person’s needs are not the same as another’s. In Myanmar, every region and ethnic group is different. Local people, armed groups, and leaders in these regions have their own histories, needs, and political aspirations. These things will only align if they share common goals. So, the national leadership and those in authority must analyze these complex and diverse conditions carefully. ‘All-inclusiveness’ won’t work well if it turns into a form of ethnic chauvinism. However, that doesn’t mean it’s unhelpful — it still plays a supportive role,” he said.

Major General Zaw Min Tun also stated that the government is working to ensure there are no gaps in the political landscape, as well as in the peace process. He said the ongoing elections are being organized to reestablish a democratic system, which will help fill political voids.

Peace Forum in session

U Ba Shein added that peace cannot be achieved through mass movements or populism, saying:

“There have been times when we questioned whether peace can really be achieved through populism and mass movements. However, hosting events like this one has drawn the international community’s attention to what’s happening in the country. Foreign scholars and experts will start to share their opinions and perspectives on Myanmar’s situation — and that itself will be supportive in some way. Especially, Indian professors have spoken about India’s ‘Look East Policy.’ Under this policy, India has supported development in its seven northeastern states — not only infrastructure but also addressing the needs of local people. That’s how peace was achieved there. Likewise, in Myanmar, where armed conflicts still exist in various regions, the Union government and responsible officials need to think carefully about which intellectuals, ideas, and political leaders can make the process successful. If they do, it will be beneficial,” he said.

Currently, Myanmar’s peace and ceasefire processes are being carried out under the principle of all-inclusiveness.

However, in practice, true inclusiveness has yet to be achieved, and ongoing discrimination and exclusion have continued to hinder Myanmar’s peace process.

CNI News
19 October 2025

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, said that it is necessary to take action so that the international community will respect and regard our country with dignity.

He made these remarks during a meeting with chief ministers of regions and states on October 16, 2025.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing stated, “A government has the responsibility to promote the social and economic development of the nation and its citizens. At the same time, it has the duty to ensure national security. Likewise, it is necessary to act in such a way that the international community respects and values our country. Only then will the people have firm trust and confidence in the government, and the government will be able to carry out its administrative duties effectively.”

Therefore, he emphasized that the most important task is to enhance the nation’s socioeconomic development, and he urged all regional and state chief ministers to work diligently toward that goal.

He further instructed the chief ministers to prioritize agricultural development in order to promote the economic growth of their respective regions and the country as a whole.

CNI News

19 October 2025

As Myanmar prepares for the election to be held later this year, both domestic and international observers are closely watching to see what kind of government might emerge afterward.

According to diplomats both inside and outside the country, the planned election in Myanmar will be largely symbolic, and regardless of the results, a form of government led by the military is expected to emerge.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has reportedly told the military that after the election, the Tatmadaw (Myanmar Armed Forces) will not directly participate in politics but will continue to take responsibility for national defense.

Sai Htay Aung, Chairman of the Tai Leng (Shanni) Nationalities Development Party, told CNI News that the incoming government will need to be moderate, transparent, and work toward lasting peace.

“The government that comes out of this election needs to be moderate and transparent. Only then can the country achieve long-term and sustainable peace. We’ve had over 70 years of experience. Whenever more armed groups emerge and fighting breaks out, it’s always the people who suffer. Now that everyone understands this, the incoming government must handle the issue carefully and decisively.”, he said.

The first phase of the election will be held on December 28, 2025, in 102 townships. The second phase is scheduled for January 2026, covering another 100 townships.

U Li Paw Reh, Chairman of the Lisu National Development Party (Dulei Party), told CNI News that the post-election parliament (Hluttaw) will be a multi-ethnic legislature.

“The upcoming government will have a parliament that includes representatives from many ethnic groups. As for the government itself, it is most likely to be formed by a party that can compete nationwide.”, he said.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, has stated that power will be transferred to whichever political party wins the election.

However, military and political analysts suggest that the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) is expected to win the upcoming election and form the government, which will likely be led by the military.

CNI News

19 October 2025

It has been learned that more than 200 Kadu war refugees in Banmauk Township, northern Sagaing Region, were rescued on October 17, 2025, by Brigade 614 of the Shanni Nationalities Army (SNA).

After the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), People’s Defense Force (PDF), and Kadu armed group launched an offensive on September 15, 2025 and captured the town on September 20, 2025, and the fighting caused widespread displacement.

More than 200 Kadu villagers from Thakhwettha and Khonann villages near Banmauk were trapped during the clashes. The SNA forces went in to rescue them, bringing them to safer areas and are currently providing shelter and care.

Due to the Banmauk offensive by the KIA, PDF, and Kadu armed group, over 5,000 local residents have been displaced. The SNA is reportedly caring for most of them, providing food supplies and medical assistance.

However, there remains an urgent need for food and healthcare support for the displaced civilians. It is reported that neither the government nor any international organizations have provided assistance to these war refugees.

CNI News

17 October 2025

Political parties in Myanmar say that no strong opposition parties have yet emerged ahead of the upcoming election.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the National Security and Peace Commission, has stated that power will be peacefully transferred to the political party that wins the election.

At present, party leaders say they have not seen any strong opposition parties, although the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) remains the strongest among them, according to U Li Paw Reh, Chairman of the Lisu National Development Party, who spoke to CNI News.

“Right now, there’s no strong opposition party that we can see. But at this point, the USDP is the strongest party. That’s how we view it. However, whether or not other ethnic or religious groups are part of this government isn’t really an issue. What matters most is the parliament. For the government to be effectively checked and balanced, parliament must be strong. If ethnic and other parties can participate equally in parliament, then the government won’t be able to act solely on its own will. The government that emerges will therefore be fairer,” he said.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing seen at the NCA 10th Anniversary ceremony

During the administration of U Thein Sein, strong opposition parties included the National League for Democracy (NLD) and the Arakan National Party (ANP).

Under Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s government, the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD), Arakan National Party (ANP), and USDP were among the prominent opposition parties.

However, this time, political parties, rather than acting as opposition forces, intend to work together for national development after the election,

Sai Htay Aung, Chairman of the Tai Leng (Shanni) Nationalities Development Party, told CNI News:

Political parties attending the 10th Anniversary of the NCA

“During the time of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and U Thein Sein, powerful parties were called the opposition. But in the coming election, instead of forming an opposition, I think parties will work together for the country’s progress. I’ve reviewed the parties that will compete in this election, and when they discuss peace issues, they all share similar views. Their main focus is on how to build a better nation. So I think cooperation will be more important than confrontation. If the government’s performance is unsatisfactory, or if its actions don’t align with the people’s wishes, then parliamentarians will speak up. There will surely be differences of opinion in parliament, but through constructive dialogue, I hope we can build the nation together,” he said.

The first phase of Myanmar’s 2025 general election will be held in 102 townships on December 28, 2025, followed by the second phase in 100 townships in January 2026.

CNI News

17 October 2025

Chinese Special Envoy Mr. Deng Xijun stated that China strictly adheres to the policy of not interfering in Myanmar's internal affairs and opposes the interference of other countries in Myanmar's internal affairs.

He made the remark during his speech at the ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) held in Nay Pyi Taw on October 15, 2025.

Deng Xijun said, "An election is necessary for Myanmar's general election. China applies a policy of friendly relations with all the people of Myanmar and strictly adheres to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. Furthermore, I would like to say that we respect Myanmar's political traditions and oppose the situation where external forces interfere in Myanmar's internal affairs."

While the NCA anniversary ceremony was being held.

He mentioned that over the past 10 years, they have been committed to helping the Myanmar government end the wars and promote peace to maintain peace and stability within Myanmar.

Chinese Special Envoy Mr. Deng Xijun said that in recent years, China has helped the Myanmar Tatmadaw sign ceasefire agreements with the relevant Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) to facilitate negotiations.

He said, "On the one hand, China has worked to stabilize and improve the situation in the relevant border areas. I would like to say that I fully respect Myanmar's national sovereignty and am ready to continue playing a constructive role as a facilitator in the peace negotiations."

China is assisting the Myanmar Tatmadaw in ending the wars in northern Shan State, Myanmar, and regaining control of towns captured by armed groups.

With China's mediation, the Myanmar Tatmadaw regained Lashio town, which was occupied by the Kokang Army (MNDAA), and a bilateral ceasefire agreement was reached.

Subsequently, China is working to facilitate a meeting and negotiation between the Ta'ang Army (TNLA) and the Myanmar Tatmadaw to halt the fighting.

CNI News

17 October 2025

The Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, stated that although Myanmar has been independent for over 77 years, it is necessary to review what fruits have been enjoyed.

He delivered the speech at the ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) on October 15, 2025.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing said, "It has been over 77 years since we gained independence. In 2028, it will be 80 years. What have we fully enjoyed from our independence? We need to look back at this. Since independence, due to various interferences, the ethnic people of this country have faced various kinds of suffering and hardship. We can compare ourselves with stable and developing countries, including our neighbours. If we compare ourselves with countries of similar power—in other words, similar population, similar land area, and similar economy—we can see that we have been left behind. Why is this? It was mentioned in my earlier speech as well. We see that this has happened due to various internal and external interferences."

Myanmar gained independence from British rule on January 4, 1948.

However, just three months after independence, on March 28, 1948, the Communist Party of Burma (CPB) began an armed revolution, and in 1949, the Karen people began their armed revolution.

Since then, ethnic groups within Myanmar have formed armed organizations under the principles of equality and self-determination, and they have been fighting and revolting against the Myanmar Tatmadaw up until today.

Nevertheless, on October 15, 2015, the NCA agreement was signed between the Myanmar Tatmadaw, the government, and ethnic armed organizations to end the armed conflict.

Subsequently, on February 1, 2021, the Myanmar Tatmadaw overthrew the NLD government, claiming that it was attempting to form a government without resolving the dispute over the 2020 General Election voter lists, and declared a state of emergency.

As a result, people have opposed and protested against the Myanmar Tatmadaw, and there are ongoing attempts to overthrow the Tatmadaw through armed conflict.

CNI News

17 October 2025

Mr. Deng Xijun, Special Envoy for Asian Affairs of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, met and discussed Myanmar affairs.

Mr. Deng Xijun visited the Commission Chairman on October 14, 2025, while he was in Myanmar to attend the ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA).

During the meeting, they discussed the importance of China's assistance to Myanmar's internal peace and development and its emphasis on Myanmar's sovereignty.

They also discussed the situation regarding the holding of the NCA ceremony, the participation of international witnesses, including China, in the signing of the NCA, and the strategic relationship between Myanmar and China as good neighbors, where they share both joy and sorrow with friendship.

Furthermore, the preparations for holding a free and fair election in Myanmar in December and China's encouragement and support for the election were discussed, as well as the arrangements made for the public to vote using Myanmar Electronic Voting Machines (MECM) to ensure a free and fair election. This was released by the Information Team of the National Defense and Security Council.

Similarly, it is learned that they also discussed the invitation of international election observation teams, including from China, for the election, matters regarding cooperation for stability and peace in the border regions between the two countries, and the continuation of promoting friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

Also present at the meeting between the Commission Chairman and Mr. Deng Xijun were Secretary of the State Security and Peace Commission, General Ye Win Oo, Commission Member and Minister for Border Affairs, Lieutenant General Yar Pyae, and Lieutenant General Ko Ko Oo from the Commander-in-Chief's Office (Army).