DAWEI — The Tavoyan National Federation (TNF) issued a statement on March 10 announcing that four independent resistance groups active in Dawei have merged to form a unified military body known as the Tavoy Army (TA).

The statement detailed that the Tavoyan National Political Assembly was convened for four days, from February 28 to March 3, in Dawei District. This assembly resulted in the formal establishment of the TNF, which will provide political leadership and strategic guidance to the newly formed army.

Yaw Nathan, spokesperson for the TNF, explained that the Tavoy Army was established under a direct mandate from the political assembly.

“The Tavoyan National Federation is a revolutionary organization representing the Tavoyan people,” Yaw Nathan said. “The Tavoy Army was formed under the political guidance of this Federation to carry out revolutionary activities and ensure the security of the public.”

According to the official statement, the force was created to fulfill the public’s desire for unity among various Tavoyan units, to implement revolutionary goals, and to protect the local population.

The TNF is currently establishing the necessary public affairs departments—including education, health, and general management—to ensure the delivery of public services within its controlled areas.

The assembly was attended by representatives from local civil society organizations, political groups, and education and health leaders, as well as various armed resistance forces. However, the specific names of all attending organizations were not disclosed.

The newly formed Tavoy Army is comprised of four armed units: the Dove Guerrilla Force, the Federal Polaris Force, the Tavoy People’s Liberation Force (TPLF), and the Nway Oo Guerrilla Force.

While initial reports suggested that the Dawei National Liberation Army (DNLA) and other prominent units might join the merger, they have not yet done so.

Yaw Nathan noted that during the deliberative phase prior to the TNF’s formation, discussions were held with the DNLA and the Student Revolutionary Force (SRF). However, he stated that due to various reasons, these groups were unable to participate in the founding of the Federation at this time, though he did not specify the exact causes for their absence.

“The Tavoyan National Federation will strive to collaborate in the future with non-armed organizations and individuals, as well as armed forces that share our goals for the benefit of the Tavoyan region,” Yaw Nathan added.

He further stated that the TNF has held informal discussions with other regional revolutionary forces and plans to hold formal meetings soon with both armed and non-armed groups to foster mutual cooperation.

The official statement also extended a welcome to any groups that agree with the fundamental principles of the TNF and wish to participate in building a unified Tavoy Army under its political leadership.