Residents in Kyainseikgyi and Kawkareik townships, recently designated as martial law zones by the military junta, are worried they will face stricter travel checks and increased military scrutiny.
The junta has declared martial law in 63 townships nationwide, including in Karen State, as part of its stated goal to suppress armed resistance, stabilize the region, and enforce law and order.
A resident of Kyainseikgyi told the Independent Mon News Agency that the area is currently under the control of both the New Mon State Party (Anti-Military Dictatorship) and the Karen National Union (KNU). Locals are now concerned about both renewed clashes and increased checkpoints.
“We’re worried things might get worse here. Most of the villages in this area are under KNU and NMSP-AD control. Although there hasn’t been much administrative disruption, we’re concerned about stricter inspections and travel restrictions,” the resident said.
In Kawkareik town, despite pressure from the junta for displaced residents to return, most locals have not come back. Government offices and buildings remain abandoned or damaged.
A military analyst noted that, with elections expected within the next three months, the junta is likely trying to regain control of these towns by any means necessary. If resistance forces push back, intense battles could lead to further destruction.
“The junta will try to take control within three months before the election. If resistance continues, towns like Kyainseikgyi may be heavily damaged just like what happened in Nawnghkio,” the analyst said.
The 63 martial law zones include 2 townships in Karen State, 5 in Kachin State, 3 in Kayah State, 7 in Chin State, 14 in Rakhine State, 15 in Shan State, 15 in Mandalay Region.
According to the official order, regional commanders and in some cases, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing himself can exercise full military authority in these areas.
Even in regions not listed under martial law, such as Ye Township in Mon State, junta airstrikes continue. On August 2, a jet fighter bombed Ye Chaung Phya village in the afternoon, despite it being outside the designated martial law zones.
Because of such attacks, human rights groups are urging civilians across all regions, especially those in martial law zones, to follow protective measures against airstrikes.
