Sat Jan 04 01:45:21 UTC 2025: ## Myanmar’s Shadow Government Aims for Decisive Victory in 2025
**Yangon, Myanmar** – Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG), the country’s shadow government, has vowed to deliver a decisive blow against the ruling military junta, the State Administration Council (SAC), in 2025. In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, NUG Acting President Duwa Lashi La outlined an ambitious strategy that combines military action, diplomatic efforts, and internal reforms.
The NUG, which oversees the People’s Defence Force (PDF), is fighting alongside a coalition of ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) against the SAC, which seized power in a 2021 coup. The conflict has escalated into a brutal civil war, with the military responding to territorial losses with indiscriminate air strikes and widespread atrocities against civilians. Currently, opposition forces control significant swathes of territory, including most of Rakhine State and areas bordering China.
La described 2025 as a pivotal year, aiming for a “tipping point” similar to the fall of Syrian President Assad. The NUG’s strategy involves intensifying military operations aimed at the complete removal of SAC leader Min Aung Hlaing. Simultaneously, the NUG seeks increased international support, including diplomatic recognition, sanctions against the SAC, and an end to arms sales and fuel supplies to the military. The NUG also calls for the international community to cease all communication and recognition of the SAC.
Internally, the NUG plans a ministerial reshuffle in early 2025 to strengthen its leadership and improve governance in areas under its control. While acknowledging challenges in gaining complete support from all EAOs, La emphasized the NUG’s role as a unifying force in the nationwide revolution. He also reiterated the NUG’s willingness to engage in peace talks with the SAC, but only under conditions that include a commitment to civilian rule and the military’s withdrawal from politics.
The NUG’s plans also include the eventual repeal of the discriminatory 1982 Citizenship Law, though La stressed the need for careful consultation to ensure public trust. The NUG continues to seek international pressure to counter the increasing support the military receives from China. The urgent need for anti-aircraft weaponry to counter the SAC’s air power was also highlighted. La stated that with sufficient support, the NUG is confident it can defeat the military within six months. The interview concluded with a desperate plea for international assistance to support the people’s revolution and end the ongoing atrocities.
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