The conflict in Myanmar has intensified, with the people's defense forces capturing key towns of Kawlin and Pinlebu in the central Sagaing region. This strategic win has further weakened the Myanmar military's hold on the country, where they have already lost control of 95 towns according to the Myanmar Peace Monitor. Meanwhile, the streets of Lashio, once a vibrant city in north-eastern Myanmar, now stand eerily quiet due to ongoing conflict.
Poverty has surged across the nation, with half of the population falling below the poverty line and another third teetering just above it. The United Nations has sounded alarms over a looming famine in western Rakhine state, exacerbated by intense fighting and trade blockades. Despite sustained airstrikes, the military has been unable to reclaim Lashio from resistance forces.
“I don’t like the rule of MNDAA that much,” said Khin Lay. “But I do not dare to say that I don’t like.”
The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) has denied accusations of forced conscription, yet concerns linger about due process under martial law. The MNDAA has provisionally agreed to return control of Lashio to the military by June, as reported by Myanmar Now. However, skepticism remains as residents voice mixed feelings about the current rule.
China has increased its support for Myanmar's military, hoping to prevent its total collapse. The border with China has reopened partially after being closed for months, a situation that had driven living costs up dramatically. Military curfews have been lifted, alleviating some fears among residents of night-time raids by soldiers.
“We saw a lot of civilians who died during the battle [in those days]. We saw them on the streets, on the lanes, some of the bodies were decayed and some of them were freshly dead. Some died in their homes,” recounted Leo.
“I don’t want [the struggle] to stop just because of the pressures from powerful foreign countries,” Leo added.
The conflict's toll on civilians is severe. Many have witnessed the gruesome aftermath of battles firsthand, with bodies left in public spaces and homes. Despite these horrors, there is a strong desire among many for continued resistance against foreign pressures and military dominance.
“After overthrowing the Myanmar military, all groups will ‘unite as one with the people and work together to bring development of our country’,” Leo expressed optimism for a unified future.
The military has executed individuals following public trials in Laukkai, raising international concerns about human rights abuses. Meanwhile, less than half of Myanmar's population currently has access to electricity, according to research by the United Nations Development Programme.
“If I were lucky enough to earn a lot of income and if my business were doing well, I would get passports, go abroad, and settle there,” said Daw Thein. “I would return after our country gains independence and becomes peaceful. This is just my imagination, and I’m not sure whether it’s possible or not.”
Daw Thein's words reflect a common wish among many Myanmar citizens: to escape the turmoil for a better life abroad, even if only temporarily. Her experience underscores the deep uncertainty and longing for peace that permeates daily life.
In an attempt to demonstrate stability, the military has promised elections this year, a move endorsed by China. However, there are fears that this process could lead to further violence.
“The regime will have to use significant violence to secure areas where it wants polling to take place, and we know that many people will resist including violently,” warned Richard Horsey.
Despite these challenges, some signs of normalcy are reemerging. The removal of military-imposed curfews has provided a sense of relief, though the shadow of conflict still looms large.