How will governance and public services emerge from the liberated territories?

Myanmar Spring Chronicle – May 16 Scenes

MoeMaKa, May 17, 2024

How will governance and public services emerge from the liberated territories?

Recently, TNLA announced actions against employees who did not join the CDM and worked for the military council in areas controlled by the Ta’ang Palaung Liberation Army, including Namhsan, Namtu, Manton, and Namhkam. Those receiving military council salaries, cooperating with businesses, or reported for crimes will face unspecified actions.

In reality, junta banks no longer operate in lost territories, and non-CDMers likely aren’t paid. In some Rakhine townships seized by AA, education staff under the military council aren’t receiving salaries. The military council prioritizes forces-related employees over civil servants like education staff, likely neglecting salary payments in Ta’ang State.

Post-liberation, new issues arise: tax collection, education and health services, importing goods, local people’s movement, immigration, medical treatment, education, and handling trans-territorial crimes. The ruling group must manage these responsibilities along with territorial security and good relations with neighboring regions.

TNLA’s statement on non-CDM employees indicates distrust and intended limitations on their careers and skills. This contrasts with the military council’s monitoring and punishing of CDM employees. Civil public service departments in liberated areas should not face similar sanctions.

Some believe the statement arose from collaboration issues between CDM and non-CDM employees or a desire to punish non-CDM employees. After gaining control, separating enemies and friends militarily may have adverse long-term effects.