Martial law extension will make no difference for Chin State, revolutionary leaders say

Chin revolutionary leaders have stated that the Myanmar junta’s proposed 90-day extension of martial law will not significantly change the situation in Chin State, even as fighting and airstrikes are expected to continue regardless of the declaration. The junta first declared a state of emergency and martial law across 60 townships on 23 April 2026, for a 90-day term set to expire on 21 July. On 14 July, Dr. Htein Linn Oo, the Deputy Minister of Legal Affairs and Deputy Attorney General representing junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, proposed a further 90-day extension to the junta-installed 2026 parliament. He cited the aim of restoring administration, community peace, and rule of law as reasons for the extension. In response to this proposal, Chin revolutionary leaders expressed skepticism. Of Chin State’s nine townships, seven were initially placed under martial law. Excluding Falam and Tonzang townships – claimed by the junta as recaptured – martial law is set to be maintained in five: Mindat, Kanpetlet, Matupi, Paletwa, and Thantlang. “Our revolution is not dependent on whether martial law is imposed or not. As long as injustice exists, the revolution will continue. We will keep fighting until we achieve the justice we desire. I do not think this declaration will change anything; they are just doing what they always do,” said Salai Thang Chun Phe, Chairman of the Chin Public Union/Chin Public Army (CPU/CPA), in an interview with Mizzima. He noted an increase in theft, robbery, looting, drug abuse, and gambling in junta-controlled areas, highlighting how the junta seemingly colludes with criminals. While the junta consistently conducts military operations, it remains unclear whether the martial law extension will intensify military activity; however, he does not expect significant changes and emphasized that revolutionary forces will pursue their established goals regardless. Another revolutionary leader echoed this sentiment, asserting that airstrikes and ground offensives in Chin State will persist as usual, with no significant impact from the extension. “Right now, there are airstrikes almost every day in Chin State, alongside ground battles. They will keep targeting the townships that are outside of their control,” he said. The townships of Mindat and Kanpetlet are currently experiencing near-daily airstrikes and ground offensives, while intense fighting continues in Thantlang. Even in areas without active ground clashes, such as Matupi and Paletwa – both controlled by revolutionary forces – and Hakha, where the junta lacks effective control, airstrikes persist. The 58 townships proposed for nationwide martial law extension include five in Kachin State, three in Karenni State, two in Karen State, five in Chin State, 14 in Rakhine State, 15 in Shan State, eight in Sagaing Region, five in Magway Region, and one in Mandalay Region. Lawmakers wishing to debate the extension proposal must register by today (July 16), with parliament set to reconvene on July 21. The post Martial law extension will make no difference for Chin State, revolutionary leaders say appeared first on ENG.MIZZIMA.COM.