Myanmar Spring Chronicle – November 14 Scene
(Moemaka) November 15, 2024
Battle for Palae Township in Sagaing Region: Armed Groups’ Unity and Political Consolidation
Sagaing Region, one of the largest territories in Myanmar with 38 townships, has been the backdrop for ongoing conflict. In Palae Township, located in the southern Sagaing Region, the Bamar National Revolutionary Army (BNRA), leading the resistance against the military junta’s forces, spearheaded a joint operation with other local defense groups. However, after four days of fighting, the BNRA retreated, as reported in local news.
The BNRA’s efforts to seize control of Palae, a township currently under junta control, were led by its commander, Bo Naga. Operating in areas such as Palae and Yinmarbin, the BNRA is one of the earliest armed resistance groups in the region. This group, unlike those formed later under the National Unity Government (NUG), was established independently by organizing arms and resources. Other notable forces in the area include one led by Bo Thann Mani, formerly known as Sayadaw Thapyay Aye, who operates in Yinmarbin Township.
Unlike the ethnically based organizational structures found in other regions, Sagaing is predominantly inhabited by Bamar people. Consequently, armed resistance groups in the region have often been formed based on township or village-level alliances rather than broader ethnic or national identities. Following the coup in 2021, various local groups emerged, often funded and led by those capable of raising resources.
Bo Naga rose to prominence as a leader under these circumstances, establishing his armed group amidst limited political and organizational support from the NUG. This lack of centralized coordination among resistance groups has posed significant challenges for the anti-junta movement in Sagaing.
Challenges in Unity Among Resistance Groups
Sagaing Region is home to numerous armed groups, including the NUG-affiliated People’s Defense Forces (PDF) and other independent groups. While these groups share a common goal of opposing the military junta, their lack of political and strategic unity has hindered their ability to operate under a cohesive strategy. For many of these groups, the primary focus remains military action against the junta, with broader political objectives taking secondary importance.
The absence of unified leadership has also led to disputes over taxation, territorial control, resource extraction, and civilian support in some cases, potentially escalating into conflicts between groups.
In mid-2023, efforts to unify the various resistance groups in Sagaing culminated in the establishment of the Sagaing Forum. Although the forum facilitated some discussions, it failed to achieve lasting political and strategic unity. Further meetings have yet to take place, leaving the region’s resistance groups fragmented.
Current State of Resistance in Sagaing
Despite three years of armed revolution, Sagaing has seen fewer territorial gains compared to ethnic minority regions. Significant victories, such as the capture of Kawlin Township, were short-lived, with control lost after a few months. Sagaing’s vast and open terrain makes it challenging for resistance forces to maintain control over towns. Limited military resources, including inadequate weaponry and air defense, also pose significant obstacles.
The inability to establish strong political unity further weakens the resistance’s strategic efforts. While individual groups have managed to seize and hold territories like Pinlebu Township, other attempts, such as the 2023 campaigns to capture Tantse and Taze, ended without success.
The Significance of the Palae Offensive
The recent Palae offensive, led by the BNRA, highlights the persistent challenges faced by the resistance in Sagaing. Despite initial gains, the group was forced to retreat after a few days. Sustained efforts to capture and maintain control over towns like Palae will require not only military strength but also political agreements and unity among local armed groups and the NUG.
Without political and strategic cohesion, the ability to achieve long-term successes and establish sustainable governance in Sagaing will remain elusive.