Tay Zar San is credited with being one of a small group of activists who launched the first street protest against the Military junta after they grabbed power in a coup on 1 February.

Tay Zar San is a Burmese physician, politician and pro-democracy activist who is viewed as a leading figure in the Spring Revolution in Myanmar. He previously served as chairman of the Mandalay District All Burma Federation of Student Unions.

In an interview with Mizzima TV, Tay Zar San discussed his calling, the efforts of the resistance, and addressed the National Unity Government’s call to action.

Mizzima: I appreciate for your time to interview on phone as there is no chance for visual interview. Interim Vice-President of National Unity Government announced the state of emergency on 7 September in a clarion call for armed revolution of the public. What is you view on this declaration?

TZS: I mostly welcome this announcement like other people. We have already hoped for it. The military coup has reached nearly eight months. All the people are voicing their opposition in possible means. The announcement is also a message to the world that the NUG begins a “defensive war of justice” to remove the dictatorship and people need to participate in this struggle with all-out efforts.

Mizzima: Do you think that NUG and the people’s defense forces, as well as other Myanmar people, are ready to launch this war?

TZS: Of course. Enthusiasm of the public plays a crucial role in this. In the past eight months, we have shown our firm determination and great endurance in fighting against the military dictatorship. All the people are encouraged to take part in the armed revolution for justice in this circumstance. Even if it is impossible to join this struggle in person, we all need to give full support to the people’s defense forces and the ethnic armed organizations.

Mizzima: How should people take part in this “defensive war for justice”?

TZS: People are believed to have already taken part in this struggle. However, those who have favourable age and health conditions should join the people’s defence forces or ethnic armed groups in their respective areas. If not so, various assistance should be given to the members of PDF and EAOs. In addition, the NUG’s declaration of war is a strategy of the militia. People can participate in this armed struggle in different ways if it is not possible for them to hold weapons. They should maintain their protests, credential campaigns such as for securing imprimatur of international legitimacy and diplomatic battles. Especially, it is important to discourage the military council and its arms. Street protests should be staged in possible areas. It means that people need to hold their community war against the military.

Mizzima: During the defensive war, how can people be aware of the armed clashes?

TZS: It is believed that people have already imagined this situation, with their readiness of the physical and mental situation.

Of course armed struggle was not chosen by us first. It came out due to brutality of the military junta. We then opted for this defensive war unavoidably. Therefore, people are advised to participate in this revolution sensibly. Our struggle will surely face various difficulties and hardships as we are not walking a flowery path. We will definitely clinch a victory in this revolution through the physical and mental powers of the public. It has been proved with the experiences over the last seven to eight months. And that it is required to maintain public participation in the revolution.

Mizzima: After the announcement of state of emergency by the NUG, people are seen panic buying foods and other commodities. What is your advice to public?

TZS: We strongly urge the people to make all possible preparations. It is not expected that this revolution might end overnight. It would be a mid-term fight or long-term struggle. So, we need to strengthen our mental, physical, intellectual and endurable capabilities. We need to be more stable in the struggle. We will help, encourage and support each other as per the concept of ‘people to people’. We will certainly experience a period of some sacrifices in the revolution. But we believe it will surely pass. People are asked to support each other.

Mizzima: Do you get any information from reliable sources about the future plans of the military regime after the announcement of a defensive war by the NUG?

TZS: Security has been tightened in different towns and cities, noticeably in Mandalay. Some junta soldiers and police have disguised themselves as civilians among the public. It means they are preparing to encounter our defensive war. However, people will definitely clinch the victory in the battleground of the people’s revolution. We must make our utmost efforts, while the junta is trying to keep their interest and power.

Mizzima: Arrests continue while the coup has passed seven months. At least 50 persons reportedly died at the hands of their brutal investigation units. However, protests are still seen in some areas, including in Mandalay. Women are bravely taking part in these protests. What is your message on the call for a defensive war in the Spring Revolution?

TZS: We confirmed moving a step forward in the revolution, and that all the people are advised to take part in this with all possible means and a keen sense to reach our destination in the short term.