By Inori
HISTORY is indelible, and 12 February 2025 marks the 78th Union Day of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. Throughout Myanmar’s history, it was only under the reigns of Anawrahta, Bayintnaung, and Alaungpaya that we managed to chronicle the unity of all national brethren in the archive called history. On 12 February 1947, the endeavours of our national leader, General Aung San, and the martyrs – to put an end to the apartheid imposed by the British government between Upper and Lower Myanmar – were acknowledged. The Panglong Agreement was reached between the leaders representing Upper Myanmar and the government of Myanmar, led by General Aung San. This agreement was a prerequisite demanded by the British government for Myanmar to attain independence.
However, the stark reality is that, amid rising political conflicts, democratic decline, and violence, union solidarity is crumbling – and, we, the people of Myanmar, are witnessing it unfold before our eyes. The shared patriotic spirit within us will certainly condemn any act that threatens to divide the union. On our journey to pave the way for Federal Democracy, we cannot lose sight of our ultimate goal – that is, to safeguard the perpetual peace and unity of Myanmar.
“Unity is strength.” As the motto goes, we cannot let differing political views divide us, or else every inch of our concerted effort in building this nation will be in vain. If we wish to harness the collective strength of our national brethren, restoring consensus, harmony, and solidarity among diverse ethnic groups is inevitable. This, undoubtedly, is not beyond our capabilities. By promoting understanding and fostering compassion, we will not only create a harmonious and inclusive society, but we will also strengthen the union spirit among us.
Furthermore, we must keep in mind that foreign interference – one of the root causes propelling Myanmar towards political unrest – is our shared adversary. Myanmar’s geographical location serves as a strategic point for warfare and economic advantage for some powerful nations seeking global dominance. Exploiting insurrections, political chaos, and Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) in Myanmar, these external forces trample upon and sacrifice the people of Myanmar for their own gain. Therefore, any form of foreign intervention or encroachment in Myanmar’s internal affairs is reprehensible. Together, we serve as sentinels, watching for any potential threats that may befall our motherland. It is our shared duty to keep the sovereignty of Myanmar in safe custody.
Myanmar, with its seven states and seven regions, has been passed down to us by our ancestors, and we are duty-bound to preserve the union territory they have entrusted us with. This is why we must join hands in harmony with one another and repel any kind of external interference. Let us remember that it is we and we alone – with compassion and understanding – who can steadfastly keep union solidarity intact and ensure peace and stability within the state.
To conclude, I proudly hail the 78th Union Day by chanting the motto:
“United in heart and soul, marching towards the Union’s goal.”
