On 21 June 1875, the government of British India and king Mindon of Burma signed a treaty recognizing the independence of Western Karenni.

On 23 January 1892, Western Karenni was incorporated into British India as a protectorate.

After the death of this prince in 1869 his two sons renewed the petition claiming that they feared Burmese ambitions on their state.

The British refused again, but agreed to arbitrate before the King of Burma.

Since the Burmese monarchy insisted in their demands on the Karenni territories, the British granted recognition to four states, Kyebogyi, Namekan (Nammekon), Naungpale and Bawlake, which became independent under British protection on 21 June 1875.