Two Mon revolutionary groups—the Mon Liberation Front (MLF) and the Rāmañña Mon Army under the New Mon State Party–Anti-Dictatorship (NMSP-AD/RMA)—announced on September 18, 2025, that they had agreed to merge and work toward establishing a single Mon armed force. The following day, NMSP-AD/RMA issued a statement confirming the effort to unify Mon armed groups.
While the groups continue to coordinate militarily against the military regime, political dialogue toward unification has encountered difficulties due to differing interpretations, understandings, and visions for the political path forward, according to NMSP-AD/RMA. Nevertheless, the organization said it remains committed to the goal of building a united Mon army.
In an interview with IMNA, NMSP-AD/RMA spokesperson Nai Gong Sakar explained the significance of the merger and the challenges ahead.
Q: Could you explain the recent agreement between the Mon Liberation Front (MLF) and NMSP-AD/RMA?
A: The main purpose of uniting was to jointly fight the dictatorship and secure national rights and self-determination. On September 18, we discussed and agreed to merge and issued a joint statement. MLF leaders and units have now joined NMSP-AD/RMA’s political and military structure. While detailed responsibilities are not yet specified, the agreement lays the foundation for future assignments.
Q: Beyond political and military cooperation, what other forms of collaboration are planned?
A: We are essentially becoming one. MLF will now take on responsibilities within the political and military leadership structure of NMSP-AD/RMA. While details on territorial responsibilities are not finalized, joint operations and coordination will continue both militarily and politically.
Q: What impact does MLF’s integration have on NMSP-AD/RMA? Will the group’s name change?
A: The addition of MLF strengthens our overall capacity, both militarily and politically. It brings greater morale and solidarity to our struggle against the dictatorship. However, the name will not change. The title “Rāmañña Mon Army” was chosen to represent a single Mon armed group, and under this name, we will continue fighting as one.
Q: What steps are being taken to achieve a single Mon army?
A: Leaders from both sides have long discussed unification, and we have already fought together in some areas. Joint operations continue in certain regions. Politically, however, there are still differences in interpretation and vision, which have temporarily stalled some discussions. Despite this, we are determined to keep pushing for unity. We also hear calls from the Mon diaspora urging unity, which strengthens our resolve. While disagreements remain, with patience and continued dialogue among political leaders, armed groups, and the broader revolutionary community, unification is achievable.
Q: Do you have any final remarks on the unification process?
A: As stated in our joint declaration, the inclusion of MLF has strengthened our organization. Our doors remain open, and we are working through various channels—political and otherwise—to achieve full unification. We want to inform Mon people both at home and abroad that there is a strong desire for one united Mon army. Despite political differences, we share the same goal: to advance the interests of our people. We will continue working toward unity with that vision.
