All Rakhine Townships to be Captured by End of 2027, AA Chief Pledges
April 11, 2026 | Burma Independent Voice
Major General Twan Mrat Naing, Commander-in-Chief of the Arakan Army (AA), stated in his message marking the 17th anniversary of the AA’s founding that the group is fighting with the conviction to capture all townships and achieve the total liberation of Rakhine State by the end of 2026 and 2027.
The AA leader emphasized his commitment to achieving victory in the remaining decisive battles within this timeframe. However, he added that if those goals are not met by then, the struggle will continue “to the ends of the earth and the end of time.”
General Twan Mrat Naing also addressed the need to seek justice for every innocent life lost due to the terrorist military’s airstrikes. He noted that rather than solely relying on international justice systems, they must focus on building and exercising their own centralized strength to achieve practical results.
“Only through strength can justice be obtained,” he said, adding that they must fight until the end to stand with dignity. He further described the future “Arakan Nation” as one that will be built with the interests of the people at its core.
In his message, the Commander-in-Chief urged AA comrades to follow the mantra: “Build while fighting, and fight while building.” He called on them to strive beyond military proficiency to become individuals of high moral character whom the public can rely upon.
Furthermore, he expressed empathy for fellow oppressed revolutionary forces, pledging to support and collaborate with them against the common enemy. The message also highlighted a commitment to ensuring that all ethnicities and religions within Arakan State can coexist peacefully with equality, harmony, and legal protection.
Congratulatory messages for the 17th anniversary of the Arakan Army on April 10, 2026, were sent by members of the Northern Alliance, as well as various armed groups and revolutionary forces that emerged during the Spring Revolution.
To date, the Arakan Army has seized 14 out of 17 townships in Rakhine State, as well as Paletwa. Despite these gains, the AA faces criticism from human rights organizations regarding the alleged persecution of the Rohingya. On April 9, Fortify Rights issued a statement claiming that new evidence has emerged regarding mass killings of Rohingya civilians committed by the AA.
