Myanmar’s President Myint Swe Dies After Long Illness

The figurehead president of Myanmar, Myint Swe, has died at the age of 74, according to the country’s military leaders. His passing follows a prolonged period of declining health, during which he had been on medical leave for over a year. The junta confirmed that he died in a hospital in Nay Pyi Taw at 08:28 local time (02:58 GMT) on Thursday, due to “neurodegenerative diseases and related neurological disorders.”

Prior to his death, Min Aung Hlaing, the junta leader, had been performing Myint Swe’s largely ceremonial duties since July 2024. Myint Swe was appointed as acting president in February 2021, following the military coup that ousted the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The junta has announced a state funeral for him.

Myint Swe’s health had deteriorated significantly in recent months. A statement from the state-run newspaper, Global New Light of Myanmar, indicated that he was in “critical condition” on Wednesday, citing issues such as weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, and cognitive decline. His health problems began to manifest as early as early 2023, when he started experiencing sluggishness in movement and difficulties with nutrition. He received treatment in Singapore in April 2024 before going on medical leave in July.

Political Landscape and Future Elections

Since the coup in 2021, Myanmar has been embroiled in conflict, with ongoing civil war between junta forces and various ethnic armed groups. In March, Min Aung Hlaing announced plans for a national election, tentatively scheduled for December 2025 or January 2026, which would be the first since the junta seized power. Critics of the regime argue that this election is merely a façade intended to preserve the junta’s power through proxy political parties.

Just last week, the junta officially ended the state of emergency and transitioned power to an interim government, ostensibly to prepare for the upcoming elections. Despite this shift, Min Aung Hlaing continues to exercise de facto control as both the acting president and military chief, raising concerns about the legitimacy of any future electoral process.

The death of Myint Swe marks a significant moment in Myanmar’s turbulent political landscape, further complicating the country’s path towards stability and democratic governance.