'I'd rather cut off a few fingers': Myanmar's draft fuels popular backlash

Critics say order will send new waves of recruits to resistance forces

20240213 Myanmar Resistance Force

Resistance force members train at a base in eastern Myanmar. Some analysts say the military's draft order could end up benefitting resistance forces. (Photo by Maung Moe)

GWEN ROBINSON, Nikkei Asia editor-at-large, and AUNG NAING SOE, Contributing writer

BANGKOK -- The announcement of sweeping conscription rules by Myanmar's military government has sparked a social media backlash and fresh calls by resistance forces for popular support. The move also marks a turning point for the military, which has portrayed itself as a professional fighting force but has seen accelerating defeats and desertions in recent months.

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