Ta'ang National Liberation Army
The Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) is a political organization and armed group prominently involved in the ongoing Myanmar civil war. The TNLA serves as the armed wing of the Palaung State Liberation Front (PSLF), which traces its roots back to the Palaung National Front (PNF), a Ta'ang armed group founded in 1963. The group primarily operates in Ta'ang populated areas of northern Shan State.
Formation and Leadership
In October 2009, the PSLF held its third congress where leaders Tar Aik Bong and Tar Bone Kyaw announced the creation of the TNLA. This strategic move aimed to consolidate the Ta'ang people's fight for autonomy and cultural preservation. The TNLA has since been engaged in various military operations against the Tatmadaw, Myanmar's national armed forces.
Key Alliances
The TNLA is part of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, a coalition formed in June 2019 that includes the Arakan Army (AA) and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA). This alliance has been pivotal in launching coordinated attacks against Myanmar's military forces, including a significant operation against a police station south of Lashio. Additionally, the Danu People's Liberation Army has collaborated with the TNLA in various military endeavors, such as Operation 1027.
Political Engagement
The TNLA is not just a militant group; it also plays a significant role in political advocacy. From June 1 to 3, 2025, the Ta'ang Political Consultative Committee (TPCC) organized a summit in Pangsang, Wa State, which brought together representatives from the TNLA, the Ta'ang National Party, and various civil society groups. This summit served as a platform to discuss political strategies and the future of the Ta'ang community in Myanmar.