Time to Unite: Why the KNU and KNLA Must Rejoin Forces with KTLA
The Burmese military thrives on corruption, division, and intimidation. For decades, it has twisted the future of Burma (Myanmar) to serve its generals, enriching itself while entire ethnic communities suffer under war, displacement, and exploitation.
The Karen National Union (KNU) and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) once stood as pillars of Karen strength and identity. Yet today, divisions and political maneuvering threaten to erode that legacy. Meanwhile, the Kawthoolei Army (KTLA) has emerged with clear resolve: it refuses to bend to corruption and refuses to be used as pawns by the Burmese junta.
Why the Burmese Military Wins When Karen Forces Are Divided
The generals in Naypyidaw have always played the same game—divide ethnic groups, buy off leaders, and exploit fractures. They know that when the KNU, KNLA, and KTLA are disjointed, Karen villages lose protection, morale weakens, and the dream of self-determination slips further away. Every moment of division is a victory for the Tatmadaw.
Unity is not optional. It is survival. The junta’s corruption is no longer hidden; it is on full display. From illegal natural resource deals to alliances with foreign powers, the military’s strategy is built on twisting arms, spreading fear, and maintaining control at any cost. Only a united Karen front can expose, resist, and ultimately defeat that system.
KTLA’s Stand: Aligned With True Resistance
The KTLA has made its position clear: they are aligned with dismantling the corrupt Burmese military. Unlike opportunistic leaders who flirt with compromise, KTLA represents the spirit of Karen defiance—unyielding, disciplined, and uncompromised.
Their growth demonstrates a hunger among Karen fighters and civilians for principled leadership that does not sell out. The KNU and KNLA cannot afford to stand apart from this momentum. By refusing to reunite with KTLA, they risk being remembered not as liberators, but as organizations that allowed division to undercut Karen resistance during its most critical hour.
Building a Strong Coalition
Imagine the impact of a true Karen coalition—KNU, KNLA, and KTLA fighting shoulder to shoulder. The political influence would multiply, the battlefield strength would surge, and Karen people would regain a clear rallying point of hope.
International allies who have hesitated due to factionalism would finally see a unified front worthy of stronger support. A coalition would also send a message to the Burmese junta: your old tricks no longer work. The Karen stand as one.
The Call to the KNU
This is not the time for hesitation, pride, or political games. The stakes are too high. Villages are burning, refugees are starving, and Karen blood is still being spilled. History is unforgiving, and it will judge whether the KNU chose unity or allowed division to weaken the people’s struggle.
The KNU and KNLA must put aside differences and rejoin with KTLA—now, not later. Only then can the Karen people face the junta with the strength that comes from true solidarity.
Bottom line:
If the Karen are divided, the Burmese military wins. If the Karen are united, the generals will finally face the coalition they fear most.
References
Smith, M. (1999). Burma: Insurgency and the Politics of Ethnicity. Zed Books.
South, A. (2018). Ethnic Politics in Burma: States of Conflict. Routledge.
International Crisis Group. (2022). Myanmar’s Coup Shakes Ethnic Armed Organisations. Crisis Group Asia Briefing.
Human Rights Watch. (2023). World Report 2023: Myanmar. HRW Publications.
U.S. Institute of Peace. (2024). Ethnic Armed Organizations and the Struggle Against Myanmar’s Military.
