Not a coup d’etat–reiterates Senior General Min Aung Hlaing
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing has reiterated that he has not launched a coup d’etat and that he has merely taken over the responsibilities of the state, declaring a state of emergency in concordance with the 2008 Constitution.
He said so at the State Administration Council (SAC) Meeting 6/2022 held in Nay Pyi Taw on 21st July morning.
Additionally, he explained those attending the meeting that the executive, legislative and judicial matters are being carried out in conformity with the power vested by the 2008 Constitution.
On 1st February in 2021, Acting President U Myint Swe, who was formerly the Vice President 1, announced a state of emergency for a period of one year as required by the then situation. Under this announcement, he handed over the responsibilities of the state to the Tatmadaw led by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
The Senior General did not recognize the results of the 2020 Elections, saying that there are cases of cheating in the election, and the cabinet members including President U Win Myint and State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi were all arrested. Then, the Senior General formed SAC which he headed. Later, he formed the caretaker government and he took the position of the prime minister.
According to the provisions of 2008 Constitution, the period of the state of emergency can be extended two times for six months each.Upon termination of the extended period, the election shall be held and the new government formed with power transferred to the elected government.
Currently, SAC led by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing is taking necessary measures according to the roadmap he has declared. Despite his promise to hold the general election in 2023, there are certain sections of people who harbour doubts not to mention the scepticism of the international community. In this regard, there are certain political party leaders who are of the opinion that election is the only way out of the political crisis.
The 2008 Constitution requires convention of the State Defence and Security Committee to grant six-month extension before 1st August. If the extension is granted, the new term will expire on 1st February of 2023. And so, the election is to be held within six months, i.e. within August, and the power shall be transferred to the elected government.
