Myanmar extends martial law for another 90 days
Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing has extended martial law in 55 townships across the country for another 90 days.
He also transferred administrative and executive powers under the decree to Gen Ye Win Oo, commander-in-chief of the armed forces, according to local news outlet Khit Thit Media.
This marks another extension of martial law in the designated townships.
The number of townships under martial law was reduced from 58 to 55 following a meeting of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) council on October 14.
The three townships removed from the designation were Nganzun in Mandalay Region, and Kyaukme and Hsipaw in Shan State.
The original decree, Order No. 1/2026, was issued on April 23, shortly after Min Aung Hlaing assumed the presidency. It declared a state of emergency and imposed martial law for 90 days in 60 townships across nine regions and states.
On July 22, officials extended the order for another 90 days while removing Falam and Tonzang townships in Chin State, bringing the total to 58 townships before the latest adjustment.
The 55 townships remaining under martial law span several states and regions.
According to Khit Thit Media, they include Sumprabum and Chipwi in Kachin State; Shadaw, Hpasawng and Maw Chi in Kayah State; and Kawkareik and Hlaingbwe in Karen State.
The list also includes Kanpetlet and Mindat in Chin State; Kawlin and Depayin in Sagaing Region; designated townships in Magway Region; 14 townships in Rakhine State; and strategic areas in northern Shan State, including Kutkai, Namhkam, Hsenwi, Mongton and Mong La.
Most of the designated townships are under the control of, or occupied by, ethnic armed groups and other resistance forces, including the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), the United Wa State Army (UWSA) and the National Democratic Alliance Army (NDAA).
Main photo: Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing (C)//AFP