The Pa'O Self-Administered Zone (; paaow kopine aotehkyaote hkwng r days) also abbreviated as Pa'O SAZ, as stipulated by the 2008 Constitution of Myanmar, is a self-administered zone consisting of three townships in Shan State. (in Burmese)
History Pa'O SAZ's official name was announced by decree on 20 August 2010.
In the wake of the 2021 Myanmar coup d'état and ensuing civil war, Pa'O youths, like many throughout the country, formed and joined resistance forces like the Pa-O National Defence Force, in opposition to military rule.
On 24 February 2023, fighting began in Pinlaung Township, forcing more than 5,000 villagers to flee, including most villagers from Namneng. On 11 March 2023, the village of Namneng became the site of the Pinlaung massacre, during which Myanmar Army troops killed at least 30 civilians, including 3 Buddhist monks.
Government and politics
The zone is currently under the de facto control of the Pa-O National Organisation. Constitutionally, the Pa'O Self-Administered Zone is led by the Leading Body of the Pa'O Self-Administered Zone, led by Chairman U Khun Phoe Sein.
The powers that the Leading Body has, which was delegated to it by Schedule Three - List of Legislation of the Leading Body of Self-Administered Division or Self-Administered Area of the 2008 Constitution of Myanmar include: Urban and rural projects Construction and maintenance of roads and bridges Public health Development affairs Prevention of fire hazard Maintenance of pasture Conservation and preservation of forests Preservation of natural environment in accord with law promulgated by the Union Water and electricity matters in towns and villages Market matters in towns and villages
Administrative divisions
The Zone is divided into three townships- Hopong Township, Hsi Hseng Township and Pinlaung Township.
References