A battalion operating under the Ministry of Defence (MOD) of the National Unity Government (NUG) announced its withdrawal on February 19 to align with the Yaw Army (YA), according to a statement from the People’s Defense Force (PDF) battalion in Gangaw, Yaw region.
A battalion official stated that the decision was made to focus on direct combat in the Yaw region and expedite its liberation.
“As a force representing the Yaw region, we seek to take an active role in battles and accelerate Yaw’s liberation. We also want to ensure that the people of Yaw have control over their own fate. For these reasons, we have submitted our resignation from the MOD,” the official said.
Political analyst Dr. Hla Kyaw Zaw noted that the withdrawal was conducted amicably, without internal conflicts among resistance groups.
“We can’t say for certain why they withdrew. It could be due to a lack of weapon supplies or internal disagreements. However, what’s important is that this was done peacefully. Revolution requires commitment, and if some no longer have the will to continue, it is better for them to step away without causing disputes,” he explained.
On February 2, MOD Minister U Yee Mon acknowledged that battalions had been withdrawing due to insufficient arms supplies and reluctance to relocate to different operational areas.
Analyst U Kyi Myint added that funding shortages were a major factor behind the resignations.
“Instead of being the backbone of the Spring Revolution, NUG has become an obstacle. They’re struggling to push the revolution forward, misallocating funds, and failing to provide financial support where it’s needed. They’ve expanded to 37 ministries and wasted resources on supporting exiled individuals instead of frontline fighters. Now, when the battle intensifies, there’s no money left for key offensives in Ayeyarwady or Mandalay. That’s why so many battalions under MOD have withdrawn,” he said.
In recent months, several battalions under MOD have resigned, including Battalion 1005 of the Southern Shan State People’s Defense Force (SSPDF) and Battalion 1008 of the SSRY. Additionally, the “Galone Column” and “White Tiger Column” have also announced their withdrawal.
