Emergency rule declared in 60 Townships across nine States and Regions

The Office of the President has declared a 90-day state of emergency in 60 townships across nine states and regions of Myanmar, effective April 23.

According to the announcement, the affected townships will be placed under martial law, with administrative and judicial powers transferred to the Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Services.

The measure was taken to suppress armed violence, restore regional stability, and ensure law and order, in accordance with Article 412(a) of the 2008 Constitution.

The townships under the emergency declaration include: in Kachin State: Sumprabum, Shwegu, Injangyang, Sawlaw, and Chiphwe, in Kayah State: Hpasawng, Shartaw, and Mese, in Kayin State: Kawkareik and Kyain Seikgyi, in Chin State: Kanpetlet, Thantlang, Paletwa, Tedim, Mindat, Matupi, and Falam.

Additionally in Sagaing Region: Kawlin, Pinlebu, Khin-U, Wetlet, Kani, Depayin, Pale, and Indaw, in Magway Region: Pauk, Myaing, Saw, Htilin, and Yesagyo, in Mandalay Region: Ngazun Township, in Rakhine State: Yambre, Pauktaw, Ponnagyun, Yathedaung, Gwa, Maungdaw, Buthidaung, Kyauktaw, Minbya, Myebon, Mrauk-U, Thandwe, Ann, and Taungup, in Shan State: Namtu, Mabein, Kutkai, Namkham, Hseni, Kunlong, Namhsan, Mantong, Hopang, Laukkai, Konkyan, Momeik, Kyaukme, Hsipaw, and Mongla.

Under Order No. 1/2026, issued with the authority of law, the government stated that martial law has been imposed in these areas under Article 413(b) of the Constitution. The move transfers full responsibility for administration, community peace, and rule of law to the Commander-in-Chief.

The Commander-in-Chief may exercise these powers directly or delegate them to appropriate military officials. The order will remain in effect for 90 days from the date of issuance, according to the President’s Office.