Myanmar’s U.S.-sanctioned acting President Myint Swe dies after long illness

 

Myint Swe, Myanmar’s U.S.-sanctioned acting president, died Thursday at age 74 after a prolonged illness. His death occurred at a military hospital in Naypyitaw, more than a year after he stopped actively performing presidential duties due to neurological disorders and peripheral neuropathy. A state-level funeral is planned, though the date remains undisclosed. Myint Swe rose to power under highly controversial circumstances in February 2021, after the military seized control from Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government. Then serving as first vice president, he was elevated to acting president following the arrest of President Win Myint, despite the latter never formally stepping down a move widely criticized by legal experts.

A former general and longtime military loyalist, Myint Swe served as Yangon’s chief minister and previously led its regional military command. He played a direct role in violent crackdowns, including the 2007 Saffron Revolution, where dozens of peaceful protestors were killed. He also oversaw internal military purges involving former Prime Minister Khin Nyunt and the family of ex-dictator Ne Win. Though lacking international prominence, Myint Swe was key to legitimizing the 2021 coup. His endorsement of the military’s power grab helped the National Defense and Security Council declare a state of emergency, enabling Gen. Min Aung Hlaing to assume full control. His later years were largely ceremonial, issuing decrees under the junta’s direction. He was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury following the coup for facilitating the dismantling of democratic rule. He is survived by his wife and two children.

See also: Reeves Urged to Raise Taxes to Fill £41bn Budget Gap, Says Think Tank