Rohingya Given Administrative Titles, But No Real Power Under Arakan Army

Photo: Than Lwin Khet News

Arakan Now | 17 December 2025

Some pro-Arakan Army media and statements from the Arakan Army claim that the Rohingya are included in the local administration. The Global Arakan Network, known as the Arakan Army’s propaganda outlet, reported that more than 5,000 Rohingya work under the AA in Buthidaung and Maungdaw Townships.

While it is true that the Rohingya have administrative roles under the AA, they hold no absolute authority. Many are used to give the impression to the international community that the AA includes the Rohingya in its administration.

A local resident told Arakan Now that U Lalu Miya, appointed as Deputy Township Administrator by the AA, can’t even take two or three people from Maungdaw to Buthidaung without official documents. This shows that Rohingya officials cannot make decisions independently.

In reality, many of these administrators are exploited by the AA to collect taxes, labour, and other resources from Rohingya villages. Their work often benefits the AA directly, rather than serving the community.

While Rohingya working under the AA are given administrative tasks, they cannot act on their own. Their role is mainly symbolic, with the AA controlling nearly every aspect of their work.

Despite some reports claiming "Rohingya inclusion," the truth is different. Titles alone do not grant them authority. Until Rohingya officials are allowed to participate freely in local governance, their roles will remain limited and primarily for show.