Myanmar’s president and former junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has introduced new emergency ordinances placing 60 townships under direct military control, in a significant move to tighten authority in areas still affected by armed conflict despite the country’s recent transition to civilian rule.

The measures apply to townships across Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Shan and Rakhine states, as well as Sagaing, Magway and Mandalay regions. Many of these areas have remained centres of resistance and instability since the military seized power in 2021 and imposed curfews and security restrictions.

State media said the 90-day emergency orders were necessary to “end armed terrorism” and restore “the rule of law.” Under the directives, executive and judicial powers in the affected townships have been transferred to Myanmar’s military chief Ye Win Oo for the duration of the emergency period.

According to Reuters, the ordinances represent the first major step by Min Aung Hlaing to consolidate control over conflict-hit territories since assuming the presidency in early April following a widely criticised election won by a military-backed party.

Myanmar has remained engulfed in turmoil since the military ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021, triggering nationwide protests that later evolved into an armed resistance movement.

Following the coup, the military repeatedly extended a nationwide state of emergency before organising elections in December and January. Critics, however, said the polls were neither free nor fair, raising further concerns over the legitimacy of the current administration.

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