Burmese military junta authorities in Homong, Mawkmai Township, opposite Thailand’s Maehongson, organized an arms exhibition during last week’s Shan New Year celebrations, according to sources on the border.

The weapons on display were seized from the Shan State Army (SSA) ‘South’ during a raid east of the Salween River early this month, said a resident on condition of anonymity.

The exhibition also had photographs of the Khun Sa led Mong Tai Army (MTA) and the history of Homong.  Homong was the late Khun Sa’s main base for 10 years from 1985 to1995.

The celebrations held from November 14 to17 was attended by over 4,000 people, the largest number since 1996, when Khun Sa surrendered.

The Area Commander of Homong, Colonel Tin Htun Naing donated Kyat 100,000 ($ 100) for the celebrations, according to residents. “He presided over the ceremony wearing a Shan costume,” said a resident.

Analysts say this year’s New Year celebrations were significant because there were no reports of official harassment as has been in evidence in previous years.

A border watcher said the junta is wooing voters for the forthcoming general elections.