The formation of these new groups could be a response to a ban on the political use of the 969 symbol in September 2013 by the Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee (Ferrie and Min Zayar Oo 2013). However, they also represent a tactical shift, as the groups are working more closely with political parties and other actors inside the system. Although 969-allied monks such as U Wirathu still maintain prominent and visible positions, the shift in tactics indicates that Buddhist nationalism in contemporary Myanmar is responsive to changing political opportunities