Data for Myanmar, an independent organization that provides useful data for the people in Myanmar revealed the military junta has declared martial law in 61 townships across the country, in the three plus years since the military coup.
On February 28th, 2024, the military junta declared martial law in Mongmit and Mabein Townships in northern Shan State, and Natsanmanton and Namtu townships, which were captured by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) on March 4rth.
Data for Myanmar, reported the military junta declared martial law in 8 townships in 2021, 48 townships in 2023, and 5 townships in 2024. Based on the 2014 census data, these townships are home to over 8.2 million residents.
A political analyst said, “The military administration doesn’t solely control the 61 townships. Initially after the coup, they had a grip on everything. However, now we’re witnessing changes. The areas they’re relinquishing are growing. The declaration of martial law in the captured townships in northern Shan seems absurd. Their authority in those regions ceased long ago.”
More recently, the military junta has eased the curfew in certain areas. However, in townships frequently targeted by armed rebellion, martial law was reinstated.
Currently 61 out of 330 townships in Myanmar are under martial law. It is clear that there is unrest in about 18% of all townships.
