BY EMMANUEL OGBONNA
Myanmar’s military chief-turned-political leader Min Aung Hlaing was elected president by parliament on Friday, formalizing a transition to what authorities describe as a civilian-led government, but which critics widely view as a continuation of military dominance under a different structure.
The vote, held in the capital of Naypyitaw, comes five years after the military seized power in a coup that ousted the elected administration of Aung San Suu Kyi. Since then, the armed forces have maintained tight control over the country’s political system while facing sustained domestic resistance and international condemnation.
According to parliamentary officials, Min Aung Hlaing secured 429 votes out of 584 in a legislature largely dominated by military-aligned parties and unelected representatives appointed by the armed forces. His victory had been widely anticipated given the military’s entrenched influence over the political process and the composition of parliament.
The election is being presented by authorities as a return to constitutional governance following years of direct military rule. However, opposition groups, independent observers, and international analysts argue that the process lacks legitimacy. Many point to restrictions placed on political participation, including the exclusion or boycott of major opposition parties, as evidence that the transition falls short of democratic standards.
Among those sidelined was the National League for Democracy, the party led by Suu Kyi, which previously won decisive electoral mandates. Suu Kyi herself remains imprisoned, serving a lengthy sentence on charges widely criticized by international observers as politically motivated.
The parliamentary session took place in a recently restored legislative complex that had suffered damage during a powerful earthquake last year, adding symbolic weight to an event authorities have framed as a step toward national recovery and stability.
Under Myanmar’s constitutional framework, the two other presidential candidates automatically assume vice presidential roles. These positions will be filled by former general Nyo Saw, a close associate of Min Aung Hlaing, and Nan Ni Ni Aye, an ethnic Karen politician aligned with military-backed interests, who is set to become the country’s first female vice president. Their formal inauguration is expected in the coming days.
In preparation for assuming the presidency, Min Aung Hlaing relinquished his role as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, in compliance with constitutional provisions that prohibit the president from simultaneously holding the top military post. The powerful position has since been transferred to a trusted ally, ensuring continuity of influence within the military hierarchy.
Min Aung Hlaing, 69, has been a central figure in Myanmar’s political and military landscape for more than a decade, having served as army chief since 2011. Even prior to the 2021 coup, the military retained sweeping authority under the country’s constitution, including control over key ministries and a guaranteed bloc of parliamentary seats.
The recent parliamentary elections, conducted in stages late last year and early this year, were held under conditions heavily shaped by ongoing conflict and political repression. Voting was limited to just 263 of Myanmar’s 330 townships due to security concerns, reflecting the extent of instability across the البلاد.
Since the military takeover, Myanmar has been engulfed in widespread unrest. Initial peaceful protests were met with force, leading to a broader armed resistance movement that has aligned with longstanding ethnic insurgent groups. The resulting conflict has evolved into a protracted civil war affecting large parts of the country.
International reaction to the political transition has remained cautious and, in many cases, critical. Western nations have imposed sanctions on Myanmar’s military leadership, while countries such as China and Russia have maintained support or engagement with the ruling authorities. Analysts suggest the move toward a nominally civilian government may be aimed in part at easing diplomatic isolation and rebuilding ties with regional partners.
Human rights organizations have also raised concerns about accountability. The International Criminal Court has been examining allegations of crimes against humanity linked to the military’s actions, including its treatment of the Rohingya minority. Advocacy groups argue that assuming a civilian title does not shield leaders from potential legal consequences under international law.
Despite the formal shift in governance, many observers believe the military’s grip on power remains firmly intact, with the new administration unlikely to bring significant political liberalization in the near term.