On June 4 in Yangon, two soldiers who defected to the KNLA from the Aung Zeya column shared their experiences, describing how they no longer have to wait for death as they did while serving in the military, but now have freedom of choice. Private Maung Phyo, who served as a sniper partner in Infantry Battalion 112 under Division 55’s Aung Zeya column, revealed that he never wanted to join the military but was forced to do so after being pressed into service as a porter. He made the decision to defect, bringing with him a sniper rifle and an MA1 type weapon.
Maung Phyo sent a message to his friends still serving in the military, urging them not to lose hope and warning them that the words of their superior officers are not always truthful. He emphasized that after defecting to the revolution, they can achieve a better life. He described how the revolutionary forces warmly welcomed them, contrary to what they had been told while in the military. The experience was far different from what they had feared based on military propaganda.
Another defector, Private Zin Ko Ko, shared how he was forced into military service after being caught in Yangon at night with only a small knife. Fearing imprisonment, he chose to enter the military. He eventually defected with an MA3 weapon and ammunition. Both soldiers encouraged others who have been forcibly recruited to make their own decisions using their conscience and connect with revolutionary forces. They emphasized that the revolutionary groups welcome defectors warmly and that the military’s claims about the revolution are merely propaganda. They urged their former comrades to seek refuge with the people’s forces, assuring them that a better life awaits those who choose to stand with the revolution.
