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Military chief nominated for Myanmar presidency
Myanmar's parliament convened Monday with military ruler Min Aung Hlaing as the sole viable candidate for president, following elections that excluded major opposition parties and were dismissed as fraudulent by critics.
Election widely condemned as sham
The December-January vote was promoted by the junta as a step toward peace, but observers called it illegitimate. Key opposition groups were barred, and conflict zones were excluded from participation. The regime defended the process as free and fair.
Parliament stacked with loyalists
Nearly 90% of the new parliament's members are aligned with Min Aung Hlaing, either as serving military officers-who hold a constitutionally guaranteed quarter of seats-or as elected representatives of the military's proxy party. Debates this week are expected to formalize his presidency.
Coup roots and constitutional trade-offs
Min Aung Hlaing's long-standing ambition for the presidency was a key motive behind the 2021 coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government after his party's poor showing in the 2020 elections. However, the constitution requires him to relinquish military command upon taking office, creating potential vulnerabilities.
Senior commanders have reportedly criticized his leadership, and his chosen successor, General Ye Win Oo, is known for harsh repression of dissent. To mitigate risks, Min Aung Hlaing has established a new consultative council he will lead, aiming to retain influence over both military and civilian affairs.
No shift expected in junta's repressive policies
The incoming administration is seen as a rebranded version of the existing military regime. Min Aung Hlaing and his allies have given no indication of ending the violent crackdown on opposition groups that has killed thousands and displaced millions since the coup. Western nations have imposed sanctions on him for his role in the takeover.
Civil war rages on
Armed resistance groups continue to control large swaths of Myanmar, with the conflict showing no signs of abating. The junta's grip on power remains contested, despite its efforts to consolidate authority through the presidential transition.
