Arakanese People Lawfully Express Desire to Govern Their State Through Voting in Last Two Elections: CDM Captain Zin Yaw

Lu Htet Naing, Narinjara News, 6 October 2024

CDM Captain Zin Yaw stated that the people of Arakan State have lawfully expressed their intent to govern themselves by participating in both elections.

When Narinjara News reached out to Captain Zin Yaw for information on the current military situation in Arakan State and its future prospects, he shared his insights.

The recent elections in Arakan State clearly demonstrated that both the military and the National League for Democracy (NLD) were defeated, with only the Arakan National Party (ANP) emerging victorious. It is evident that the voters want their state to be governed by the Arakanese people, he stated.

Captain Zin Yaw further emphasized that, given the substantial sacrifices made by the Arakan Army (AA) and the local population, it is only through adherence to their collective will that they can attain their desired objectives.

The people of Arakan are seeking self-governance, and the Arakan Army (AA) has stood alongside them, making significant sacrifices and enduring losses. It is crucial to emphasize that it is only through the determination and collective will of the Arakanese people that they will be able to achieve their aspirations," he stated.

CDM Captain Zin Yaw envisions a future where Arakan is governed in accordance with the desires of its people, as articulated by AA commander-in-chief Major Gen Twan Mrat Naing.

"In Arakan, the AA and ULA are committed to governing in accordance with the wishes of the people, as they have affirmed. The (junta) military will resist this at all costs. The AA has been in conflict with the military since before the coup,” he stated.

Captain Zin Yaw mentioned that at present, the Arakan Army (AA) is in control of both junta military bases and their headquarters, utilizing strategies such as launching large-scale attacks at unpredictable moments.

The situation at the war front in Arakan is positive. While some military activities have paused due to the rain in certain areas, fighting on the Arakan front persists. The AA remains operational on the ground as per their plans. It is believed that preparations for an offensive in Ann are well underway, including troop positioning, strength, food and ammunition supplies, and medical support. This sets Arakan up for a favorable military position. Following the battle in Maungdaw Township and the capture of Maung Shwe Lay naval base, AA forces and weapons are being mobilized. The AA's strategy involves launching large-scale attacks at unpredictable times," he explained.

CDM Captain Zin Yaw also proposed that the AA may pursue an offensive to seize Ann Town while concurrently conducting operations in Taungup and Kyaukphyu.

According to CDM Captain Zin Yaw, launching an offensive in Ann could lead to a favorable situation as fighting is already underway on the Ann-Minbu road. He also believes that a battle to capture the Western Command in Ann may occur soon.

The Arakan Army (AA) has occupied several towns: Palerwa in Chin State along with Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya, Pauktaw, Myebon, Ramree, Buthidaung, Rathedaung, Taung Pyo, Thandwe, and Kyeintali in Arakan State. In the remaining townships, all rural areas have been occupied, except for the urban areas.