Military to recognise victory of any party: Min Aung Hliang
Myanmar Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing reiterated his stance that the military will accept the victory of any party in the upcoming election.
At a press conference on September 21, he addressed questions related to the election and the military succession plan.
Asked how the military will conduct national reconciliation efforts if a powerful opposition party wins the election, he said: “We will appreciate whatever party wins the election. I’ve already said we would welcome the election result if it is free and fair. Nothing can be done beyond the constitution. Now, the political parties are publicising their visions and stances. However, they cannot do anything outside the Constitution. The laws should be followed for the sake of the country’s development. Only then will national reconciliation be done. We will do it in a constructive way for the country.”
He added that the military does not instruct its staff on how they should vote.
MP Hla Swe, a member of Union Solidarity and Development Party, earlier said that the party would establish a government together with 25 per cent of military seats if it wins 26 per cent of votes in the election.
“I’ve heard it. But it is just his personal opinion, not the USDP’s. I suppose the party to win the election will seek to join the military. The vice-presidents will be nominated by each party. There is no guarantee that a party will win 51 per cent to form the government.”
Min Aung Hlaing was also asked about his future and the succession plan as he would reach the retirement age in 2016.
“According to the martial law, the retirement age is 60. However, anyone can serve under specific circumstance even over the age of 60 according to an order enacted in 1959. Therefore, it depends on the situation. I cannot say what I will do when I’m 60 years old,” he said.
He also referred to the military reshuffle, saying that the process was prepared for some time before it was announced on August 10.
“When I became the commander-in-chief, there were some rumours. I was not in the list of their speculation. However, the senior ones have already planned for the right place for the right person. Then, I became the commander-in-chief. I’m not very clever, but I’m faithful and hardworking. It is difficult to predict since everything depends on the situation and changes,” he said.
The military chief also referred to a report in 7 Day on the succession plan. He said the views expressed contained nothing insulting or the military would have taken action against it.
