The National Unity Government (NUG), formed by pro-democracy forces in Myanmar to oppose the military junta that seized power in a coup, held an interview with the Sankei Shimbun in early this month at its "Representative Office in Japan" in Tokyo.

Zaw Wai Soe, the NUG's Minister of Health and Education, said that over 5,000 people have been killed by the military and that approximately 3 million people have become internally displaced. He criticized the military's announcement of conscription as "a hypocritical law that is destroying the country."

Zaw Wai Soe stated, "65% of the country is controlled by the NUG and ethnic resistance organizations," adding, "Since the coup, the military has fired on peaceful protesters, and we had no choice but to defend ourselves." He continued, "We have organized the People's Defense Force (PDF) with the support of ethnic resistance organizations."

Regarding former State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, he said, "The fact that she is still in prison means that she is with the people." He pointed out that "if the military releases her, they will force her to say that she opposes the use of force."

He dismissed the military's announcement regarding conscription as "a false law." Zaw Wai Soe explained, "Most young people who have fled to avoid conscription have joined our revolution, expanding the People's Defense Force." He added, "Others have crossed the border into free areas." He emphasized, "The economy has collapsed as workers have disappeared from cities like Yangon and Mandalay."

Regarding Aung San Suu Kyi's current situation, he said, "She was once detained, but we don't know exactly where she is now." He expressed his concern, saying, "Considering her age of 78 and health condition, we are very worried."

Meanwhile, he urged the United Nations to investigate the military's human rights violations and war crimes.