Surprise Resignations in Myanmar Ahead of Elections

Looks like the Army is shuffling the national leadership ahead of the upcoming elections.

Myanmar's prime minister is among several senior military leaders who have stepped down to run in national elections this year.

Prime Minister Lt. Gen. Thein Sein will run as a civilian in Myanmar's first elections in 20 years. Although a date for polling hasn't been set, October is thought to be the month.

There has been no official announcement about the resignations, numbering more than 20 and including many mid-ranking officers, in the New Light of Myanmar newspaper that acts as the mouthpiece of the junta.

But unnamed military sources have confirmed the resignations, a report by the India-based expatriate news agency Mizzima said.

The list of resignations includes Agriculture and Irrigation Minister Maj. Gen. Htay Oo, Rail Transport Minister Maj. Gen. Aung Min, Commerce Minister Brig. Gen. Tin Naing Thein and Deputy Home Minister Brig. Gen. Phone Swe.

More resignations are likely in the coming weeks, the military source told the Mizzima agency.

Yeah, they still won't be free elections, but I suppose it's some form of progress...

By: Brant