“As the main ethnicity in the area, apart from Shan, is Akha, it may be designated as Akha Self Administered Zone (SAZ),” said a source close to the leadership.

The NDAA’s domain, according to government specification, covers Mongla township, Hsaleu and surrounding areas in Mongyang township and Nampan and surrounding areas in Mongyawng township.

The Akha, together with their cousins Akho, are the most numerous and widely distributed of the hill tribes in eastern Shan State, according to Burma: A Handbook of Practical Information (1906) by former British Commissioner J.G. Scott.

The National Convention 1993-2007, held under the auspices of President Thein Sein’s predecessor, Senior Gen Than Shwe, had stipulated that an ethnic nationality that applies for a self administered status must have the majority population in each of at least two townships that are contiguous.

Mongla, according to a report by Democratic Voice of Burma, has already conducted a census in areas under its control. It has not yet disclosed whether the Akha fits with Naypyitaw’s criteria.

The other ethnic nationality pushing for a SAZ status is Lahu. The National Convention had dismissed it saying the Lahu did not meet the criteria.

Shan State already has 5 self administered areas: Danu, Kokang, Palaung, PaO and Wa.