The Arakan Army, a Myanmar-based armed insurgent group, has announced its intention to establish full control over Rakhine State by the end of 2027. The declaration was made on Friday (10 April) during an event marking the group’s 17th anniversary. The announcement was delivered by its commander, General Twan Mrat Naing.
According to the statement, the group is currently advancing towards its stated objective with confidence and intends to continue coordinated operations alongside allied organisations against Myanmar’s military junta.
At present, the Arakan Army is reported to be in control of 14 out of 17 townships in Rakhine State. It also holds control over Paletwa in neighbouring Chin State. The remaining three key urban centres—Sittwe, Kyaukphyu and Manaung—remain under the control of Myanmar’s military junta forces.
The commander stated that the group would persist in its campaign in coordination with allied forces, maintaining pressure on the junta administration as part of a broader resistance effort.
Military operations in Rakhine State intensified from 13 November last year, when the Arakan Army launched a sustained offensive across the region. Since then, the group has expanded its territorial presence significantly.
Alongside its military advances, the Arakan Army has reportedly established parallel administrative structures in the areas under its control. These include local administrative offices, judicial mechanisms, schools, and healthcare facilities, forming an alternative governance framework within those territories.
However, the ongoing conflict has also been accompanied by reports of displacement of civilians in affected areas, as a result of air and naval operations carried out by junta forces.
Following the group’s recent territorial gains, expressions of support and congratulations have been issued by other members of the Brotherhood Alliance, as well as Myanmar’s National Unity Government. More than 40 armed resistance groups have reportedly acknowledged the development, describing it as a notable example for other ethnic armed organisations in the country.
The Arakan Army was formed on 10 April 2009 in Laiza, Kachin State, initially with 26 members and a single firearm. Since its establishment, it has expanded into one of the most significant armed groups opposing Myanmar’s military government.
Territorial Control Overview
| Location | Current Control | Status Description |
|---|---|---|
| 14 townships of Rakhine State | Arakan Army | Majority of township-level control |
| Paletwa (Chin State) | Arakan Army | Controlled area outside Rakhine |
| Sittwe | Myanmar junta | State capital under junta control |
| Kyaukphyu | Myanmar junta | Strategic coastal and economic hub |
| Manaung | Myanmar junta | Remaining junta-held town |
The current distribution of control reflects a divided territorial situation in Rakhine State, with the Arakan Army holding a majority of townships, while the Myanmar military retains control over key administrative and strategic urban centres.