With growing aspirations to reinforce their manpower, the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) in the Yangon region, led by Comrade Kean, have launched a campaign named “Expecting Yangon.” The initiative seeks to equip soldiers with adequate weaponry and pave the way for strategic military advancements in the Sittaung River Basin and Yangon areas. Here’s a closer look at the campaign’s objectives, challenges, and future plans.
1. “Expecting Yangon” Campaign: Objectives and Hopes
Equipping the Forces for Effective Defense Comrade Kean, head of information and communication for Yangon’s PDF (1), emphasizes that a major obstacle in the group’s defense efforts is the lack of sufficient weaponry for all soldiers. Many soldiers head into battle unequipped, relying on improvised arrangements. The campaign aims to resolve this by raising funds for weapons to strengthen the PDF’s tactical capabilities in Yangon.
Building Confidence Among Comrades Without enough weapons to go around, soldiers have had to work under challenging conditions. According to Comrade Kean, many feel demoralized when they face the prospect of fighting without proper equipment. By ensuring each soldier is equipped, the PDF hopes to boost morale and cohesion within the ranks, helping them focus on strategic gains in critical areas.
2. Funding Challenges and Tactical Use of Resources
Crowdfunding for Weapons and Equipment With limited resources, the campaign relies heavily on public donations to purchase necessary weaponry. The cost of each firearm is significant, approximately 130,000 Thai baht, which creates logistical and financial challenges. To avoid delays, the PDF takes charge of the entire purchasing process, ensuring safe transportation and accountability for each acquisition.
Prioritizing Frontline and Strategic Security Needs Due to limited supplies, available weapons are carefully allocated among soldiers. Priority is given to those on the front lines, which leaves gaps in security for rear units. The campaign aims to address these issues by increasing weapon availability, allowing PDF units to secure critical areas effectively without compromising safety.
3. “Expecting Yangon”: A Movement and Mission for Defense
Symbolic and Strategic Meaning of the Campaign “Expecting Yangon” symbolizes both the PDF’s mission to expand its reach towards Yangon and the public’s anticipation of their arrival. Comrade Kean explains that the name reflects mutual hope between PDF members and the Yangon populace, underscoring the movement’s goal of establishing a secure presence in Yangon.
4. Recent Actions and Expansion Efforts by the Yangon PDF
PDF’s Growing Influence in Southern Yangon Districts Since February, the PDF (1) has made significant strides, establishing a presence in key southern districts such as Kyauktan and Dagon Port. Supported by two divisions from the Ministry of Defense, the PDF actively collaborates with local Defense Forces to bolster community security and support.
Participation in Defense Operations Against External Threats On November 2, soldiers from the Yangon PDF (1) played a vital role in pushing back adversarial forces entering Kyaitha Township, successfully clearing the area of threats. This operation highlights the PDF’s commitment to defending and securing communities while laying the groundwork for expanding their mission in Yangon.
The Path Forward for “Expecting Yangon”
The “Expecting Yangon” campaign reflects the PDF’s resolve to equip and support soldiers in their mission to secure Yangon. Through public support and careful resource management, the PDF is building a robust force prepared to defend against external threats and fulfill their long-term vision of a stable, secure Yangon.
