Karen National Union Stands Against Criminal Enterprise: A Call for Unity and Integrity in Kawthoolei
In a powerful and principled move, the Karen National Union (KNU) has publicly rejected involvement in the construction of an illegal casino town in the Mor Hto Ta Lay area of Karen State—an area deeply affected by years of war, displacement, and the struggle for ethnic self-determination. The KNU’s clear and unequivocal stance matters greatly, not just for the integrity of the movement but for the long-term vision of a united and autonomous Kawthoolei.
A Dangerous Development Threatens Karen Sovereignty
According to the KNU’s official statement, foreign criminal groups fleeing law enforcement in Cambodia have initiated plans to build a new city intended for illegal gambling and financial crimes. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on February 17, 2020, south of Myawaddy. Initially disguised as a land lease between a local Karen company (Mu-Lu-Ei Ahn Co. Ltd.) and Asia International Holding Group (Thailand), it was later exposed through signage that falsely claimed cooperation with the KNU.
Such deception is deeply troubling. Not only does it risk the reputation of the KNU and the people of Karen State, but it also opens the door to lawlessness, exploitation, and foreign corruption that undermines the very fabric of ethnic sovereignty. The region, long a haven for those resisting oppression, must not become a pawn in the schemes of transnational criminal syndicates.
KNU Sets the Record Straight
The KNU has made it clear:
“KNU has no involvement in any such project or other illegal gambling and financial service activities... such activities are not accepted in Karen State and by the KNU.”
Further, the statement confirms that KNU members are strictly prohibited from engaging in criminal-related businesses or activities that would lead to national and ethnic disintegration. This strong position not only safeguards the dignity of the movement but also protects the people of Kawthoolei from becoming victims of yet another form of external domination.
A Time for Unity: Reconciling with General Nerdah Bo Mya
The KNU’s rejection of the casino project represents a moral compass that must guide the future of the Karen people. However, moral clarity alone is not enough—we must now look inward and heal the fractures that have limited our progress.
One such fracture is the unresolved split between the KNU leadership and General Nerdah Bo Mya, a respected and courageous freedom fighter who has long represented the grassroots will of the people. His unwavering resistance to compromise with foreign powers and corrupt actors has earned him the admiration of many within the Karen resistance.
Now is the time for reconciliation.
The Kawthoolei Government cannot afford further division while enemies—both foreign and domestic—scheme to exploit the region. The KNU's principled stand against the illegal casino is the perfect moment to open a dialogue with General Nerdah and his forces. Unity does not mean uniformity; it means forging a shared vision that can resist both military tyranny and foreign criminal influence.
Why This Matters
Karen land must never be for sale to criminal interests or used as a haven for illegal activities that endanger the community.
The KNU’s bold refusal sends a message to both allies and adversaries that Karen resistance is not for rent or sale.
True liberation requires internal unity—between the KNU, KTLA, KNDO, and the grassroots leadership that has carried the fight for freedom for generations.
A united Kawthoolei has the power to be a model for ethnic autonomy, dignity, and resistance in Burma (Myanmar).
Applauding the KNU—and Calling for More
We applaud the KNU for standing firm in the face of foreign pressure and deceit. This was not just a political move—it was a moral stand that reflects the values and hopes of the Karen people.
But the work is not done.
We urge the KNU to take the next step: reach out to General Nerdah Bo Mya. Build a bridge of trust. Convene a summit. Reunite the leadership and present one voice for Kawthoolei—one that cannot be manipulated, divided, or co-opted.
In the face of enemies who use money, deception, and violence to control our future, our greatest weapon is unity rooted in integrity.
Conclusion
Karen State stands at a crossroads. One path leads to exploitation and decay; the other to sovereignty and justice. The KNU has chosen the right path—now let us walk it together, reconciled and resolute.
References
Karen National Union. (2023). KNU Statement on the Construction of an Illegal Casino Town in Karen State. Kawthoolei: KNU General Headquarters.
Mu-Lu-Ei Ahn Company Ltd. and Asia International Holding Group. (2020). Groundbreaking Ceremony for Proposed City Development in Mor Hto Talay Area. Event signage and materials (as referenced in KNU statement).
Thai-based News Agency. (2023, January 5). Report on Alleged Business Permit Granted by Saw Roger Khin to Huanya International Holding Group. [Cited in KNU clarification.]
KNU Central Executive Committee. (2023). Internal Directives on Member Conduct and Prohibition of Criminal Business Activities. Kawthoolei: Confidential Guidance Circular.
