Myanmar swears in new president

[News_Editor]

Myanmar swears in new president

2011-03-30 23:12:48 GMT+7 (ICT)

YANGON, BURMA (BNO NEWS) -- Retired General Thein Sein on Wednesday was sworn in as president of Myanmar, Mizzima News reported.

Thein Sein, the leader of the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party, was sworn in at a joint session of Parliament in Naypyidaw, the country's capital since 2005. According to a government statement, the military junta led by Senior General Than Shwe had been dissolved, and executive, legislative and judicial powers were transferred to union level members.

Thein Sein, 65, was appointed prime minister four years ago. As president, he becomes the official head of state, assuming power at the blessing of his mentor Senior General Than Shwe, who came to power in a coup 19 years ago and has ruled the country ever since.

During his inaugural speech, President Thein Sein said the country must build a modern army or risk being bullied by other countries. Myanmar has been subject to economic sanctions by Western countries since September 1988 after a military crackdown on a pro-democracy movement.

Myanmar's 8th president since independence, Thein Sein is seen as one of the least corrupt members of the ruling junta generals. The cabinet is overwhelmingly comprised of retired and serving military personnel.

The first challenge for the incumbent president will be to tackle the widespread  corruption at every level in national and local affairs.

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