The National Unity Government’s (NUG) Deputy Minister of Defense, Nai Kaung Rattana, has reiterated that any resistance against military dictatorship is a legitimate fight for truth. His remarks came in a statement commemorating the fourth anniversary of the formation of the People’s Defense Force (PDF).
Despite the difficulties and sacrifices involved in the armed resistance, Nai Kaung Rattana emphasized that the decision to take up arms was made with firm belief and clear purpose—to uproot the military dictatorship and restore the country’s and its people’s future.
“We fully understand that taking up arms requires us to shed our blood and sweat, give up our lives, and part ways with all that we hold dear,” he said. “Yet, we chose this path with conviction, as it is the only way to dismantle the tyrannical military system. Every act of resistance, every bullet fired at the oppressive army, is part of a just war.”
The PDF was formed on May 5, 2021, following widespread public protests and resistance in the wake of the military coup on February 1, 2021. Since then, many young people have joined the armed struggle under the NUG’s command.
In the statement, the Deputy Defense Minister honored the fallen heroes of the revolution and vowed to carry on the struggle until the goal of a federal democratic union is achieved.
Prime Minister Mahn Winn Khaing Thann also addressed the public on the anniversary, affirming that the PDF has expanded its operations nationwide with defined military zones and structured leadership.
“Our PDF victories are the people’s victories. The PDF has established operational areas across the country and is working to become a well-organized national defense force,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to the ethnic armed organizations and local defense forces that joined in the fight against the junta.
Political analyst Dr. Hla Kyaw Zaw noted that the PDF’s confidence has grown significantly over the past four years.
“In the beginning, many within the PDF lacked confidence. But now, we’re seeing stronger belief in themselves, which is a major achievement,” she said. “Public support has increased as well. While the PDFs are not without weaknesses, just like other long-established ethnic armed groups, their dedication to the people and belief in their mission will continue to drive them toward greater success.”
Currently, there are reportedly 316 PDF battalions active across the country, many of which are coordinating operations with ethnic resistance groups in the ongoing fight against the military regime.
