The Karenni National Army (KNA) issued a statement on August 20 calling for resistance against the election planned by the terrorist military. The statement urged the public and revolutionary forces to oppose the military junta’s election through various means including political, military, and public movement strategies. The announcement emphasized that the military council, which has repeatedly committed war crimes and continues to use armed force to terrorize and kill civilians, is only holding the election to extend its dictatorial rule.
The KNA declared that according to democratic standards, only a people’s government formed by publicly elected representatives has the authority to conduct elections. They firmly opposed the military commission’s election, both in concept and practice, which is being conducted without public consent. The Karenni National Army was established on October 29, 2024, with 8 battalions, founded on 9 basic principles and 5 national objectives.
The Karenni National Army was formed by unifying scattered Karenni armed groups across Loikaw, Demoso, Moebye, Pekon, and other Karenni regions with the purpose of fighting against the terrorist military. The organization continues to collaborate with other regional armed resistance groups and has committed to continuing the fight until the end of the military dictatorship system. The KNA maintains its position as a people’s defense force, working to protect civilian interests and promote democratic values in the region.
