The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) – allegedly under Chinese pressure – has banned its members from joining international attempts to address Myanmar’s crises.
The armed group said on Wednesday that its personnel were banned from speaking to western governments or the international media.
Leaked details recently emerged of a meeting between China’s special envoy to Myanmar, Deng Xijun, and the powerful United Wa State Army (UWSA), where the armed group was told to conduct a “four-cut” strategy against the MNDAA to stop it from fighting the regime.
The four cuts refer to denying access to food, funds, information and recruits.
Talks on Myanmar’s crises were recently held in Jakarta with representatives from Indonesia, ASEAN, the European Union, United Nations and anti-junta groups.
Beijing has blocked border trade to Kokang where the MNDAA is based and areas liberated by the allied Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) along the Chinese border, creating hardship for residents.
A military analyst who monitors Chinese intervention in Myanmar told The Irrawaddy that the MNDAA is under heavy pressure from Beijing.
Beijing fears anti-regime groups will participate in international summits discussing Myanmar held by Thailand, India and ASEAN, the analyst said.
“The Chinese government is brazenly intervening in Myanmar’s affairs,” he added.
In early September, the MNDAA said it would not collaborate with the civilian National Unity Government militarily or politically or any international organization that opposed China.
The statement also said the MNDAA would not extend its territory or attack Mandalay city and Taunggyi, the capital of southern Shan State.
The announcement followed a Chinese government warning to the TNLA to stop fighting the regime or face consequences.
The Brotherhood Alliance, of the MNDAA, TNLA and Arakan Army (AA), launched Operation 1027 against the regime in northern Shan State in October last year.
The operation ceased in January after the Brotherhood Alliance agreed to a China-brokered ceasefire with the regime. But the attacks resumed in late June after a series of junta air and artillery strikes on TNLA territory.
The Brotherhood Alliance has seized most of northern Shan State, including the capital, Lashio, and vital trade routes with China. The TNLA is attacking the remaining junta bases in Hsipaw and Nawnghkio townships.
The AA has seized most of Rakhine State since November last year and its attacks continue. China appears to have less direct influence over the AA in Rakhine State than its two allies along the Chinese border.
