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Junta Chief Min Aung Hlaing Nominated As President Of Myanmar Amid Controversial Election
Myanmar’s military chief Min Aung Hlaing has been nominated for the presidency as parliament convened on Monday, following a general election that excluded the country’s main opposition parties.
Min Aung Hlaing is widely expected to be confirmed, having been nominated alongside two loyalists considered unlikely to challenge his bid.
The military leader, who has been sanctioned by several Western countries, led a coup five years ago that plunged Myanmar into a prolonged civil conflict. Since then, thousands have been killed and millions displaced, with large parts of the country remaining under the control of armed opposition groups.
The general elections, held between December and January, were presented by the junta as a pathway to peace. However, the process was widely criticised as lacking credibility, with major political parties barred from participating and voting unable to take place in significant areas due to ongoing violence.
The military government has rejected those criticisms, insisting the election was free and fair.
Despite that, around 90% of lawmakers in the newly formed parliament are aligned with Min Aung Hlaing, either as military appointees who automatically hold a quarter of parliamentary seats or as members of the armed forces’ political party.
Parliament is expected to spend the week deliberating on the presidential selection, but his emergence is seen as inevitable.
Min Aung Hlaing has long been understood to harbour presidential ambitions. His failure to secure power through the 2020 election, which was won by the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, was a key factor behind the military takeover that removed her administration.
Under Myanmar’s constitution, however, he would be required to relinquish command of the armed forces if he assumes the presidency an outcome that could alter internal power dynamics within the military hierarchy.
Reports indicate that some senior commanders are dissatisfied with his leadership, raising questions about the risks associated with stepping away from direct military control.
He has already selected a close ally, General Ye Win Oo, to succeed him as military chief. The general is known for his hardline stance and alleged harsh treatment of dissenters.
Min Aung Hlaing has also established a new consultative council, which he will lead, potentially allowing him to retain influence over both military and civilian structures even after assuming the presidency.
The expected transition is unlikely to signal any substantive policy shift, with observers noting that the incoming administration will largely mirror the current junta, albeit under a civilian framework.
