The Karen National Defense Organization (KNDO) Chief of Staff General Saw Shi Lay has officially announced plans to reestablish the organization’s headquarters in Insein Township, Yangon Region, by 2027, returning to its historical location. This announcement marks a significant milestone in Karen revolutionary history and demonstrates the growing military and political strength of Karen forces in their struggle for autonomy and democracy.
The KNDO is one of two main armed wings of the Karen National Union (KNU), with a rich history dating back to 1947. The organization initially operated from its headquarters in Insein Township, Yangon, where it fought against both the Japanese government and the early post-independence Myanmar government. Due to various military engagements and strategic considerations over the decades, the headquarters had to be relocated to other areas. Now, during the current revolution against the military dictatorship, the organization is planning its return to its original headquarters location, symbolizing a significant shift in the balance of power in the ongoing conflict.
According to Karen revolutionary sources, General Saw Shi Lay’s directive to rebuild the headquarters in Insein by 2027 has been confirmed as a definitive plan. This strategic move reflects not only the increasing military capabilities of Karen forces but also their crucial role in Myanmar’s broader democratic revolution. The decision to reestablish the headquarters in its original location demonstrates the progress made by ethnic armed organizations in their fight against the military dictatorship and their growing confidence in their ability to maintain a presence in areas previously under tight military control. This development also signifies the changing dynamics of power in Myanmar and the strengthening position of ethnic armed organizations in their struggle for federal democracy and self-determination.
