On this occasion of the 56th Kayaw National Day, which falls on 15 April 2024, we extend our heartfelt best wishes to all Kayaw people for their physical and mental health, safety, and well-being, and we respectfully commemorate and celebrate this significant day. Kayaw National Day was first held on 15 April 1968 with the aim of promoting and preserving Kayaw national identity, and it has now been commemorated continuously for 56 years.

Throughout the history of the Kayaw people, their struggles against the military dictatorships and all forms of authoritarian rule, as well as their efforts for equality, self-determination, and the right to shape their own destiny, have served as a continuous source of strength not only for the Karenni national revolution but also for the establishment of a federal democratic system for the whole country. We here again respectfully recognized on their efforts and sacrifices of the Kayaw people.

During the First World War, the Kayaw people aligned themselves with the Kyay Pho Gyi (a traditional local leader who represented the region and exercised political and military authority during the colonial era )regional chief, and served in the Allied forces, fighting courageously and sacrificing their lives for the Karenni State. Their service was formally recognized with honors from the British Crown.

Furthermore, in the nationwide movement opposing military dictatorship and all forms of authoritarianism, the Kayaw people have continued to stand together with everyone across the country, since 1 February 2021, and has continues participation till today.

In building a Federal Democratic Union based on equality and democracy through collective leadership and mutual recognition, we acknowledge the great vital role of the Kayaw people.  Thus, with this commemorative message, we encourage them to unite in efforts to end military dictatorship and all forms of authoritarian rule.

Interim Executive Council of Karenni State