Hso Khan Pha, Burmese-Canadian geologist and politician (d. 2016)

Prince Hso Khan Pha of Yawnghwe, also known by his Burmese name စဝ်ခမ်းဖ (Sao Kham Hpa) and affectionately nicknamed "Tiger," was a prominent figure whose life spanned from 15 April 1938 to 4 October 2016. A scion of the revered royal lineage of Yawnghwe, one of the significant Shan States in what is now Myanmar, he was not only a member of royalty but also a distinguished consulting geologist who spent a significant portion of his life in exile in Canada.

His parents were figures of immense historical importance: Sao Shwe Thaik, the last reigning Saopha (hereditary prince or ruler) of Yawnghwe and the very first President of the Union of Burma, and Sao Nang Hearn Kham, the Mahadevi (royal consort or queen) of Yawnghwe. This illustrious heritage deeply shaped Prince Hso Khan Pha's life, intertwining his personal journey with the tumultuous political landscape of his homeland.

Life in Exile and a Distinguished Career

Prince Hso Khan Pha's life took a dramatic turn with the military coup in Burma on 2 March 1962. This pivotal event, which saw General Ne Win's military seize power, brought an abrupt end to democratic rule and ushered in decades of authoritarian governance. His father, Sao Shwe Thaik, who had played a crucial role in Burma's independence movement and served as its first President, was arrested during the coup and subsequently died in custody under suspicious circumstances later that year. His mother, Sao Nang Hearn Kham, also faced persecution and was held under house arrest for a period before eventually escaping to Thailand and continuing her advocacy for Shan rights.

The political upheaval and the tragic fate of his father compelled Prince Hso Khan Pha to leave his homeland. Seeking refuge and a new beginning, he ultimately settled in Canada, where he built a new life while remaining deeply connected to the struggles of his people. Despite the challenges of exile, he forged a successful career as a consulting geologist, a profession that demanded meticulous analysis, scientific expertise, and a keen understanding of the earth's resources. His work as a geologist allowed him to contribute meaningfully in his adopted country.

Legacy and Contributions

Throughout his time in Canada, Prince Hso Khan Pha remained a dedicated advocate for the rights and self-determination of the Shan people. He often spoke out against the injustices perpetrated by the military regimes in Myanmar, lending his voice and prestige to various Shan nationalist organizations and international forums. His unique position as a royal heir, coupled with his firsthand experience of political repression, made him a compelling figure in the movement for a federal and democratic Myanmar. He passed away on 4 October 2016, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, dedication to his heritage, and a steadfast commitment to the future of the Shan States.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Prince Hso Khan Pha?
Prince Hso Khan Pha was a royal scion of the Yawnghwe Shan State, a consulting geologist, and a prominent figure in the Shan independence movement who lived in exile in Canada. He was also known by his Burmese name, Sao Kham Hpa, and the nickname "Tiger."
What was his connection to Yawnghwe?
He was a prince of Yawnghwe, one of the historically significant Shan States. His father, Sao Shwe Thaik, was the last Saopha (hereditary ruler) of Yawnghwe and the first President of the Union of Burma.
Why did he live in exile?
Prince Hso Khan Pha went into exile following the 1962 military coup in Burma (Myanmar), which led to the arrest and death of his father, Sao Shwe Thaik, and the suppression of democratic institutions. The political turmoil and persecution of his family compelled him to seek refuge abroad.
Who were his parents?
His parents were Sao Shwe Thaik, the last Saopha of Yawnghwe and first President of the Union of Burma, and Sao Nang Hearn Kham, the Mahadevi (royal consort) of Yawnghwe.
What was his profession?
Prince Hso Khan Pha was a successful consulting geologist during his time in Canada.