@jacobp posted here:
http://forum.mikrotik.com/t/v7-7rc-is-released/162872/1
The 7.7rc2 release has fixed my issue with the hAP ax2 radios.
With the countries field now populated, the wifi radios start up and devices associate just fine. Thanks to the Mikrotik team for getting that taken care of!
Not sure whats exactly was his issue. I will give 7.7rc2 a shot.