LESSONS IN POLITICS
In addition to military training, BPLA recruits undergo political education. After morning drills, a short break allows for rest or review of recent political lessons.
Following dinner, everyone gathers in the bamboo-constructed assembly hall. The BPLA flag hangs above the whiteboard. Powered by a generator, fluorescent lights illuminate the room. Here, evening political classes take place.
Every evening, Maung Saungkha delves into the BPLA’s founding principles, government structure, federalism, and even gender equality. His words echo through the makeshift hall.
“I know you’re exhausted,” he told them, “but a soldier’s duty transcends fatigue.”
One night, as the lesson progresses, a chilling silence descends upon the camp. A junta scout drone has detected their presence. The generator shuts down, plunging the camp into darkness. Everyone freezes, waiting for the drone to disappear.
The following morning, Maung Saungkha gathers his officers to reinforce emergency procedures in case of a fighter jet attack. The roar of jets is a familiar threat in the jungle, but vigilance remains crucial.
Ma Chel, a 25-year-old woman and deputy head of recruitment and screening for the BPLA, recalls her journey from civilian to soldier. After completing basic training, she said she was proud to become an instructor.
“My trainer told me that if one soldier goes to the frontline, there’s one bullet fired. But if 100 students go, there are 100 bullets,” Ma Chel said. “This made me feel proud and motivated.”
