미얀마 민주화 운동을 강경 진압한 군사정부 책임자 얼굴

 

 

Head of state: Than Shwe, chairman of the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC)

Senior General Than Shwe is the country's top military leader and heads the SPDC, the body of 12 senior generals that runs the country and makes the key decisions.

Than Shwe, a one-time specialist in psychological warfare

He has steadfastly ruled out a transfer of power to Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD).

In 1993 he established the National Convention, a reconciliation process aimed at drawing up a new constitution. However, the general is said to be in no hurry to allow political change and talks have been boycotted by the NLD.

Born in 1933 near the town of Mandalay, Than Shwe joined the army at the age of 20. His career included a stint in the department of psychological warfare. He was decorated more than 16 times during his career as a soldier.

He is said to be introverted and superstitious, frequently seeking the advice of astrologers.

Reports in early 2007 said the 73-year-old had sought treatment in Singapore for an undisclosed medical condition.

Power struggles have plagued Burma's military leadership. Prime Minister Khin Nyunt was sacked and arrested in 2004. The former premier, who said he supported Aung San Suu Kyi's involvement in the National Convention, was seen as a moderate who was at odds with the junta's hardliners.

Vice-chairman of SPDC: Maung Aye

Prime minister: Soe Win

Defence minister: Than Shwe

Foreign minister: Nyan Win

Home affairs minister: Maung Oo