Former commander follows late leader

General

Former commander follows late leader

Retired Shan State Army commander Col Zarmmai passed away at noon yesterday (30 July) in Maehongson, 6 days after the death of Chao Tzang Yawnghwe, his former leader.

Charm Tong, 23, known for her active campaigns against Rangoon's rights violations and running a school for students from Shan State, is one of his children.

Zarmmai, a native of Panglong, formerly of Namhsan State of Federated Shan States, was born in 1940. He joined the resistance in 1960 and until 1996, when he returned to civilian life, was one of its famous fighting commanders.

His funeral will be held at Khaharn village, Maehongson, on 3 August.