Myanmar: Min Aung Hlaing elected president – he led the coup in 2021

Bangkok (Thailand), 3 April (LaPresse/AP) – Myanmar’s parliament has elected Min Aung Hlaing as the country’s new president. In 2021, the general overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian government and has maintained a firm grip on power ever since. Min Aung Hlaing was one of three candidates for the presidency, but his appointment was virtually guaranteed, given that MPs from military-backed parties and members appointed by the army hold an overwhelming majority in parliament. Aung Lin Dwe, Speaker of the Union Parliament, announced that Min Aung Hlaing had secured 429 votes out of 584. The two runners-up became vice-presidents.