Myanmar ethnic rebel groups join hands to from Federal Army

Twelve of Myanmar’s ethnic rebel groups have announced the establishment of a Federal Army, a move likely to anger the national government. The new force, called the Federal Union Army, FUA, will be under the supervision of the United Nationalities Federal Council, UNFC, an umbrella group that has been trying to negotiate a nationwide cease fire between ethnic minorities and the national military. Major Khun Okkar, co-secretary of the UNFC, tells that the new force will be vital in national peace efforts. But it is not clear if the new force will help or hinder the prospects for peace. The government has not yet reacted to the announcement, but officials have previously expressed strong opposition to the formation of the Federal Army.