Dossier: BPLA Myanmar

The Bamar People’s Liberation Army (BPLA) was founded in 2021 by Maung Saungkha, a former poet and activist, following Myanmar’s military coup. Initially composed of 17 fighters, the BPLA has grown into a notable resistance force with approximately 2,000 members by 2024. Its formation represents a significant shift in Myanmar’s political landscape, where the Bamar, the largest ethnic group, historically dominated the country’s military and political systems. However, the BPLA differentiates itself from traditional Bamar nationalism by advocating for a federal democratic union and promoting inclusivity across ethnic lines.¹

Saungkha’s vision for the BPLA is rooted in dismantling military dictatorship and fostering unity among Myanmar’s diverse ethnic groups. The group’s inclusivity is highlighted by its policies ensuring leadership roles for women and LGBTQ+ members, a progressive stance among Myanmar’s ethnic armed organizations. The BPLA also collaborates with other ethnic armed groups, such as the Arakan Army (AA) and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), aiming to overthrow the military junta collectively. This cooperation underscores the BPLA’s broader vision of creating a democratic and equitable Myanmar for all ethnic groups.²

The BPLA’s military operations focus on guerrilla warfare tactics, including ambushes and sabotage. The group has participated in large-scale military campaigns like “Operation 1027,” targeting military outposts and strategic positions of the junta in northern Shan State. The BPLA’s objectives align with those of other resistance forces in Myanmar, aiming to disrupt the junta’s control and weaken its military power.³

Despite these advances, the BPLA faces challenges in balancing its assertion of Bamar identity with the risk of reinforcing ethnic divisions in Myanmar. Historically, Bamar nationalism has been associated with dominance over other ethnic groups, leading to distrust. However, Saungkha’s approach of forming alliances with other ethnic groups presents an opportunity to redefine Bamar nationalism in a more inclusive and cooperative manner.⁴

In conclusion, the BPLA represents a transformative force in Myanmar’s ongoing conflict. Its commitment to inclusivity, cooperation with ethnic minorities, and guerrilla warfare tactics make it a key player in the fight against the military junta. The group’s efforts reflect broader aspirations for a democratic and inclusive future for Myanmar.

Footnotes:

1. “Bamar People’s Liberation Army,” Wikipedia, last modified September 27, 2023, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bamar_People%27s_Liberation_Army.

2. “Maung Saungkha Seeks Territory for Bamar People’s Liberation Army,” DVB, August 4, 2023, https://english.dvb.no/maung-saungkha-seeks-territory-for-bamar-peoples-liberation-army/.

3. “Myanmar’s Poet-Warrior Shares a Vision for Democracy,” DW, August 22, 2024, https://www.dw.com/en/myanmar-poet-warrior-democracy-vision/a-66587941.

4. Ibid.