Myanmar Military Chief Assumes Acting President Role

Myanmar's acting President Myint Swe has taken medical leave due to serious health issues, including psychomotor retardation and malnutrition, and has transferred his duties to military chief Min Aung Hlaing. This transition comes as the state of emergency, initially declared following the military coup in February 2021, is set to expire at the end of July. The junta, which has extended the emergency multiple times citing instability and armed opposition, faces ongoing civil conflict and widespread dissent. Min Aung Hlaing now temporarily leads the country amidst significant internal turmoil and international condemnation. The military has promised elections in 2025, though critics argue they will not be free or fair.