April 24, 2026
Myanmar junta imposes martial law in 63 townships63 townships amid ongoing civil conflict
Myanmar's National Defense and Security Council declared martial law in 63 townships across nine regions and states, transferring executive and judicial authority to the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services for 90 days. The move follows a state of emergency declaration and is framed by authorities as necessary to restore peace and stability in areas experiencing resistance activity and insurgency.
The martial law expansion reflects the military junta's struggle to maintain control as anti-junta forces have captured multiple district-level towns and now control more than half the country. Since the February 2021 coup that toppled Myanmar's democratically elected government, the conflict has killed over 6,000 people and displaced nearly three million, with the junta suffering significant military losses.
Myanmar Military Junta
The junta frames martial law as essential for restoring normal administrative conditions, peace, and the rule of law in affected townships. Authorities cite the threat of violence and insurgency as justification for concentrating military authority in resistance-controlled areas.
International Human Rights Organizations
Amnesty International and independent analysts document the junta's use of terror tactics including village burnings, arbitrary detention of over 20,000 people, and mass displacement of civilians. The military's control has eroded significantly despite martial law measures, with anti-junta forces now controlling more than half the country as of 2024.
- Myanmar's 2008 Constitution empowers the NDSC to declare emergencies and seize full governmental powers.
- Min Aung Hlaing has commanded the Tatmadaw since 2011, leading the 2021 coup.
- Shan State hosts multiple ethnic armed groups amid its diverse highland terrain.
Myanmar Civil War
Myanmar's military government, led by President Min Aung Hlaing, maintains control over urban centers while facing armed resistance from ethnic militias and pro-democracy forces across rural and border regions.
