Regime-appointed Arakan CM claims development plans underway amid widespread hardship

By Admin 30 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

30 April 2026, Sittwe

Regime-appointed Chief Minister U Naing Oo has stated that plans are being implemented to create job opportunities for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and grassroots communities in Arakan State.

He made the remarks during a meeting with Sittwe residents held yesterday at U Ottama Hall in Sittwe.

“The Arakan State government is striving through various means to improve the education, health, economic, and social sectors, as well as to ensure the overall development of the state,” he said.

According to the regime-controlled Ministry of Information, the meeting was attended by U Naing Oo, Arakan State Parliament Speaker Dr. San Shwe, members of the state government, and departmental officials.

The Arakan State government, appointed by Min Aung Hlaing, includes ministers overseeing security, economy, social affairs, transport, agriculture, natural resources, municipal affairs, and Chin ethnic affairs.

U Naing Oo also said the administration is prioritizing food security and continuing efforts to strengthen the education sector.

However, a Sittwe resident said locals are facing rising commodity prices, livelihood difficulties, and frequent arrests.

“IDPs and locals are starving because there are no job opportunities at all. Transportation routes are blocked. People are also being arrested under overnight guest list checks. These issues must be addressed first,” the resident said.

Locals said surprise overnight guest list checks were conducted in Sittwe for three consecutive days from April 24 to 26, resulting in the arrest of around 30 residents.

Out of Arakan State’s 17 townships, the Arakan Army controls 14, while the regime maintains administrative control over Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, and Manaung.

Clashes between the regime and the Arakan Army continue in Sittwe Township, with frequent airstrikes reported.

Residents in Kyaukphyu and Manaung also reportedly face unemployment and high commodity prices.

While the regime claims development progress, residents say there is little improvement on the ground.