Myanmar coup leader Min Aung Hlaing set to become President.

Myanmar’s military leader Min Aung Hlaing is expected to assume the presidency following a parliamentary vote dominated by his allies, five years after he seized power in a coup that triggered a prolonged civil conflict.

The new parliament, convening for the first time since the military takeover in February 2021, is widely seen as firmly aligned with the armed forces. Min Aung Hlaing has stepped down as commander-in-chief, a constitutional requirement before taking office, but is expected to retain significant influence.

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Power shift seen as largely symbolic

The parliamentary outcome has been widely anticipated. The military is guaranteed 25% of seats under Myanmar’s constitution, while its political proxy, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), secured a large majority of the remaining seats in an election critics say was heavily skewed.

Observers say the transition to civilian leadership is largely symbolic, with key positions in the new administration expected to remain under military control.

Min Aung Hlaing has appointed a close ally, General Ye Win Oo, as the new head of the armed forces, and established a consultative council expected to oversee both civilian and military affairs.

Conflict and repression since the coup

The 2021 coup, which removed the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, sparked widespread protests that were met with force, escalating into a nationwide conflict.

Thousands have been killed and millions displaced during the fighting. Large areas of the country have come under the control of armed resistance groups, while the military has responded with air strikes on opposition-held regions.

Rights groups and activists have accused security forces of widespread abuses, including torture and mistreatment of detainees.

One former student activist, who asked not to be named, said he had been detained and abused after taking part in protests in 2022. He said he now plans to leave the country, citing limited prospects for change.

Economic strain deepens crisis

Myanmar’s economy has deteriorated sharply since the coup, with rising inflation and falling living standards.

The United Nations estimates that more than 16 million people require humanitarian assistance, while nearly four million have been displaced by the conflict.

Fuel shortages have added to the strain. Myanmar relies heavily on imported oil, and supply disruptions linked to the wider regional situation have led to rationing and higher prices.

Workers say it has become increasingly difficult to cover basic living costs. In Yangon, one motorbike taxi driver said income no longer meets essential expenses such as rent and food.

Frequent power outages have also forced businesses to depend on generators, further increasing operating costs.

Limited prospects for political change

Some political figures have called for dialogue between the military and opposition groups, arguing that a negotiated settlement is the only way to end the conflict.

Veteran activist Mya Aye has proposed a platform aimed at encouraging talks and securing the release of political prisoners.

He said the current political process would not resolve the crisis and warned that the country risked further deterioration without compromise.

There has also been speculation that Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains detained, could be released, though no official timeline has been confirmed.

For now, however, the military leadership appears set to consolidate its control as the country continues to face political instability, economic hardship and ongoing conflict.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Source3 Apr 2026