Myanmar's Powerful Military Chief Seeks Presidency After Coup

Myanmar's powerful military chief Gen. Min Aung Hlaing is tightening his grip on power, taking steps to officially become the country's president after orchestrating a coup that ousted the democratically-elected government in 2021. The senior general, who led the military takeover, is widely believed to have coveted the presidency for years and is now making his move to cement his control over the Southeast Asian nation.

Since the coup, Min Aung Hlaing has dissolved the country's election commission and has called for new elections, which are widely expected to be heavily rigged in his favor. The military has also cracked down on pro-democracy protesters, with security forces killing hundreds of civilians in a brutal suppression of dissent.

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Despite international condemnation and sanctions, Min Aung Hlaing appears undeterred in his quest for the presidency. The military has tightened its grip on key government institutions and is moving to consolidate its power through a series of legal and constitutional changes.

Analysts say Min Aung Hlaing's path to the presidency is aided by the military's dominant role in Myanmar's political system, which was enshrined in the country's constitution even before the coup. The military retains significant influence over the government, the economy, and key decision-making processes.

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The move by Min Aung Hlaing to solidify his control over the country has raised concerns among pro-democracy activists and the international community, who fear that it will further entrench military rule and undermine any prospects for a return to civilian governance. The situation in Myanmar remains highly volatile, with the country continuing to grapple with the aftermath of the coup and the ongoing struggles of its people for freedom and democracy.