Myanmar junta chief nears presidency after criticised electionsMilitary-appointed lawmakers attend a session of the House of Representatives following a phased election dominated by the army-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party, in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, on March 16. (Photo: Reuters)Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing moved closer to the presidency after a lower house nomination on Tuesday, paving the way for the military to extend its rule following elections criticised by the United Nations and others as a sham. Gen Min Aung Hlaing won 247 out of 260 eligible votes, while his rival, Kyaw Swe of the National Unity Party, received 10 votes, according to a live broadcast. Loyalists and former generals dominate both chambers of parliament, where the military holds a quarter of the seats, giving Min Aung Hlaing a clear path to the presidency. “If he takes the presidency in contrast to his pledge to transfer power after the election, the international community won’t change its perspective on Myanmar,” he said, referring to the junta chief.

Source: Bangkok Post March 31, 2026 13:35 UTC