Interviews

“At the moment, we still fear airstrikes. The whole town is covered in grass, so there’s still a risk of landmines. We plan to let people return only after clearing these hazards and ensuring that it’s safe.” – U Aye Lwin, administrative head of Lay Kay Kaw Myo Thit

“The primary reason is the lack of arms and ammunition. The junta rotated their troops and employed aerial and ground attacks with a systematic strategy. As the fighting dragged on, our supplies dwindled, and we eventually ran out of bullets.” Leader of the revolutionary force engaged in ground combat in Ngan Myar Gyi

“Some can’t afford pads…So we wear multiple layers of longyi (sarong). Sometimes we use shirts if our longyis aren’t dry. We receive no support in the camps. Women can’t go without pads.” – Ma Thandar, a displaced woman from Sittwe

“They entered Tet Hlaing village after the burning, killings, and arrests. No one dares to approach the village. We have to watch the burning of the village from a distance. Among those killed, some women were raped, but the people still don’t dare to enter the village because the military column remains in the village.” A local man from Budalin

“The bombing is happening all around town from four directions. I heard they’re also bombing near Dar Let village. The bomb explosions are so powerful they make the ground shake in town. They’re bombing very close to town.” – A local woman from Ann

“I’ve heard that negotiations are planned between the two armed forces, but there are differing views on this. If the militia and BGF ultimately refuse to negotiate, I think fighting will escalate.” A local man from Chipwi

“Most of those attending military training aren’t doing so willingly, but because they can’t avoid it. The pressure is so intense some are threatened with expulsion from their villages if they don’t attend training.” – A woman spokesperson of Pa-O Youth Organization (PYO)

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