AA Rejects Junta’s Planned Election in Rakhine

The Arakan Army (AA) from Rakhine State in western Myanmar will not recognize the junta’s election in territories under the ethnic armed group’s control, AA spokesperson Khaing Thukha told The Irrawaddy at a press conference on Monday.

The ethnic army has liberated 14 of Rakhine State’s 17 townships plus Paletwa Township in neighboring Chin State since the launch of Operation 1027 in western Myanmar in November 2023.

The AA has been attempting to seize the island township of Kyaukphyu, where Chinese mega-investment projects are located, while encircling the state capital Sittwe.