LASHIO, Myanmar — The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) has withdrawn its forces from two strategic checkpoints in northern Shan State following late-December negotiations with military representatives in Lashio.
As of Jan. 1, Kokang troops vacated the Hsipaw Bridge and the Mai Han checkpoint near the entrance to Lashio. Local sources report that while the MNDAA remains in nearby villages, they have stopped collecting taxes and dismantled gates along the main Union Highway.
The withdrawal has allowed the military to partially reopen the Hsipaw Bridge for pedestrian use, easing a months-long bottleneck on the vital trade route between Mandalay and the China border.
Pro-military media outlets stated that both sides agreed to keep the highway clear of armed groups. However, political analysts suggest the move is linked to the military’s upcoming third phase of elections in late January, which includes constituencies currently under MNDAA influence.
Observers believe the military is exerting pressure to regain administrative control over these trade hubs as it seeks to finalize its election cycle with regional diplomatic support.
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