The nominal president of military-ruled Myanmar, Myint Swe, is suffering from serious illnesses, according to a rare statement from state media released on Friday. This news comes just weeks before the ongoing state of emergency is set to expire, adding to the growing pressure on the junta.
Myint Swe, 73, a former army officer, assumed the presidency after the 2021 coup. He immediately handed power to the military, effectively becoming a figurehead. However, his health could pose a constitutional problem for the junta, which relies on him to sign off on decrees and maintain a facade of legitimacy.
State media reports that Myint Swe is experiencing “psychomotor retardation and malnutrition,” along with “neurological disorders and peripheral neuropathy disease.” He has also undergone surgery on both eyes.
The junta is facing its most significant challenge since seizing power, with an armed resistance movement gaining strength in large parts of the country. The economy is collapsing, adding to the pressure on junta leader Min Aung Hlaing.
Unable to quell the pro-democracy rebellion, the junta has repeatedly extended the state of emergency, which is set to expire on July 31, each time promising future elections.
Myint Swe became president after the incumbent, Win Myint, was arrested during the coup, along with Nobel laureate and de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Both remain detained.
Richard Horsey, a Myanmar analyst at Crisis Group, points out the lack of a clear succession plan in the event of Myint Swe stepping down. “It de facto means Min Aung Hlaing would decide, but he couldn’t put himself forward (as president),” he said. This situation could further complicate the already turbulent political landscape.
State media reports that Myint Swe’s condition has not improved, despite medical interventions, including treatment in Singapore. “As he cannot do normal daily activities including eating food, close medical treatments are being provided,” it said.
