The Kawthoolei Consultative Council (KCC) and the Kawthoolei Governing Council (KGC), under the Karen National Union (KNU), are expanding operations to strengthen governance in KNU-controlled areas and improve civil services requiring international engagement.

The two Kawthoolei councils were established by the KNU on April 10 to upgrade existing governance models and strengthen engagement with the international community.

“We aim to improve the current governance model, particularly in civil service sectors, while strengthening international engagement,” KNU spokesperson Padoh Saw Kler Say said.

These two new councils will coordinate with other federal units across the country and are preparing to systematically navigate the revolutionary transition period while continuing the fight against military dictatorship.

“While we focus on strengthening governance, we cannot lose sight of the revolution. During this period, we must stay committed to that goal. We will work in partnership with the KCC, and by operating in close coordination between the two councils, we believe we can carry forward the revolutionary effort without any lapses,” Padoh Saw Kler Say added.

The KCC comprises representatives from the KNU Central Executive Committee, the seven KNU-administered districts, diverse ethnic groups, women and youth groups, and MPs elected in the 2020 polls.

Both Kawthoolei councils have also committed to upholding full responsibility and accountability in advancing democracy and human rights. All parties have also pledged to work together to prevent any obstacles that could threaten the stability of the Kawthoolei Region.

Despite ongoing military tensions in KNU-controlled districts, the KNU said the establishment of the two councils as concrete administrative bodies is part of its preparations for a future federal union.