NUG Calls for Immediate and Unconditional Release of State Counsellor and President; Cites Neighboring Influence as Obstacle to Unity
April 16, 2026 | Burma Independent Voice
In a speech marking the 5th anniversary of the formation of the National Unity Government (NUG), Acting President Duwa Lashi La called for the immediate and unconditional release of State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Win Myint.
“I want to state solemnly that we do not forget for a single minute or second the situation of State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint, and all political prisoners who have been unjustly detained. The military junta may be able to detain our leaders under unjust charges, but they can never imprison their spirit and their love for the people. We resolutely demand the immediate and unconditional release of our leaders and all those unjustly arrested during the Spring Revolution,” the Acting President stated in his speech.
Regarding the challenges facing the movement, the Acting President noted that influences from neighboring countries continue to pose obstacles to unity.
“While historical distrust among revolutionary forces and the influence of neighboring countries remain obstacles to unity, our common goal remains the ‘abolition of the military dictatorship.’ No matter how many obstacles and difficulties there are, this shared objective will one day lead us toward a stronger unity,” he said.
Furthermore, he candidly admitted to existing weaknesses within the revolution and noted that many challenges remain difficult to overcome.
“While we have taken steps toward successes never before seen in successive revolutionary histories, I want to admit that there have also been failures due to our own weaknesses. Particularly in the armed revolution, where our experience is still maturing, we have had the opportunity to learn many lessons. We face limitations in resources as well as limitations in our operational space. Therefore, I wish to honestly inform the public that just as there have been losses where we had to relinquish certain gains, there are still many things that remain difficult to overcome at this time,” the NUG Acting President added.
The National Unity Government (NUG) was formed on April 16, 2021, and has now reached its 5-year milestone. As the military coup passes the five-year mark, the military junta has conducted its own preferred election and formed a new government led by the coup leader.
