by Hafizur Rahman
Rakhine State, Myanmar | July 7, 2026
The Arakan Army (AA), which controls 14 of Rakhine State’s 17 townships, is moving to rename several towns as part of its administrative reforms in areas under its control.
According to local sources and The Irrawaddy, Pauktaw is expected to be renamed Vīraṭṭhānī, meaning “Abode of the Brave,” while Minbya is expected to become Añjanapura, meaning “City of Añjana.” The proposed names are derived from places and traditions associated with the former Arakan Kingdom.
Sources also said additional towns, including some in Maungdaw and Sittwe districts, may be renamed in the future, although no official announcements have been made.
Residents in Pauktaw and Minbya said local youth groups, together with the United League of Arakan (ULA) and the Green Arakha project, have been planting trees along roads as part of preparations for the planned changes.
The AA has established its own administrative system across areas under its control, including departments responsible for education, health, justice, and local governance. It is also developing a new school curriculum in the Rakhine language. According to local sources, the Grade 12 curriculum has been completed and is expected to be introduced in the next academic year.
In 2025, the AA reorganized the 14 townships under its control in Rakhine State, along with Paletwa Township in Chin State, into eight administrative districts.
The reported renaming initiative reflects the AA’s broader efforts to institutionalize its administration and promote historical Rakhine place names in territories under its control.
The information is based on reporting by The Irrawaddy and local sources.
