Human rights activists and political analysts said the junta’s recent push to revive the Myitsone Dam project in Kachin State is a calculated move aimed at securing political support from China.
Critics argued that the long-stalled dam project is being used as a bargaining chip to gain full backing for the junta’s controversial election, widely dismissed as a sham.
“The junta has become an international outcast. It’s struggling with both economic and political crises because of its isolation. By restarting the Myitsone project with the financial help of neighboring countries, it’s trying to buy political support, and maybe a way out of its problems,” said Ko Jacob, spokesperson for Kachin Human Rights Watch (KHRW).
The Myitsone Dam, which was suspended indefinitely in 2011 under President U Thein Sein due to public opposition, is now being revived amid the junta’s deepening political and military crisis. The resistance-led National Unity Government (NUG) condemned the move, calling it a ploy by the junta to tighten its grip on power.
“The junta is willing to sacrifice the heart of the country just to cling to power,” NUG spokesperson U Nay Phone Latt said.
The massive China-backed hydroelectric project is planned for the Myitsone area north of Kachin State’s capital, Myitkyina, where the Ayeyarwady River originates. Myitsone is considered a natural landmark of the region.
Kachin Women’s Association Thailand (KWAT) also warned that the junta’s push could escalate military conflict and create additional complications in Kachin State.
“If the Myitsone project goes ahead, it could seriously damage the country’s waterways. The junta will try to control the entire area and won’t hesitate to use violence. This will only bring more bloodshed,” said Daw San Htoi, spokeswoman for the KWAT.
On December 16, 2025, deputy junta chief Vice Senior General Soe Win visited Myitkyina, telling locals that discussions with China over dam designs were already underway.
Meanwhile, the junta has warned that anyone opposing the project without a concrete reason could face serious consequences, a move seen by activists as an attempt to intimidate the public.
Despite the threats, organizations like KHRW continue to protest the junta’s plan to restart the project.
