Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing appoints new cabinet, military still dominates
Myanmar’s parliament has approved a 30-member cabinet under President Min Aung Hlaing, reinforcing the military’s continued dominance in governance despite claims of a return to civilian rule. The appointments come days after the junta chief assumed the presidency following controversial elections.
The new cabinet largely consists of retired military officers and figures closely aligned with the armed forces, reflecting what observers describe as a continuation of the existing power structure. The reshuffle includes key changes in security ministries, with General Tun Aung, a former air force chief, taking over as defence minister, while Lieutenant General Hpone Myat has been assigned the border affairs portfolio.
Diplomatic representation has also been reshaped, with former ambassador Tin Maung Swe appointed as foreign affairs minister. Several senior figures who served under the junta since the 2021 coup have retained influential roles, including retired generals overseeing economic and administrative sectors.
The developments follow elections dominated by the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party, which secured a strong parliamentary presence. The polls were widely criticised by the United Nations and Western governments, citing the exclusion of opposition parties and lack of transparency.
Analysts say the cabinet formation signals a “business-as-usual” approach, with minimal prospects for meaningful reform. Many argue that the system allows military leaders to operate in civilian roles while retaining centralised authority over key institutions, including defence, internal security and administration.
Since the 2021 coup that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar has faced ongoing conflict, economic decline and a worsening humanitarian crisis. Armed resistance movements and ethnic groups continue to challenge military rule, while millions remain displaced.
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