Myanmar's Figurehead President Myint Swe Passes Away at 74

Myint Swe, the figurehead president installed by Myanmar's military after a coup in 2021, has died from long-term neurological disorders, marking a significant moment in the nation’s tumultuous political landscape.

 

Myint Swe, who served as the nominal president of Myanmar since the junta's takeover, passed away at the age of 74 in a Nay Pyi Taw hospital early Thursday, as confirmed by military officials. His health had been a concern for over a year, leading to his extended medical leave since July 2024.

Having initially taken power following the 2021 coup that ousted the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, Myint Swe's role was largely ceremonial. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing had been fulfilling his presidential duties since last July.

In an official statement, the junta cited "neurodegenerative diseases and related neurological disorders" as the cause of death, revealing that Myint Swe had been in critical condition prior to his passing. His health had deteriorated significantly, accompanied by a series of concerning symptoms including weight loss and cognitive decline.

Myint Swe underwent medical treatment in Singapore earlier in the year and had been reported to have serious health struggles since then. Details of a state funeral are forthcoming.

The political climate in Myanmar remains fraught with conflict since the military's grip on power, with ongoing civil unrest between the junta and various ethnic armed groups. In attempts to navigate this turbulence, Min Aung Hlaing announced plans for a national election tentatively scheduled for late 2025 to early 2026, a move critics argue is a façade to solidify the junta's hold on authority.

Despite a recent transfer of power to an interim government, Min Aung Hlaing continues to exercise control, reflecting the uncertainty looming over Myanmar’s future as it grapples with the fallout from the coup and ongoing civil conflict.