Min Aung Hlaing Admits It Will Be Difficult to Replicate Thein Sein Government

Coup leader Min Aung Hlaing said that whether the situation could resemble the Thein Sein government would depend on which party wins the election and the conditions under which other parties cooperate with the winning party. He made the remarks after visiting polling stations in Chanmyathazi Township, Mandalay Region, during Phase 3 of the election, in response to a media question asking whether a government like that of former President Thein Sein could emerge. “When President U Thein Sein was in office, they did their work, but on the other hand there were also opposition forces. If the opposition works for the good of the country, that’s one thing; but if they act negatively, then it will be difficult,” Min Aung Hlaing said. He also said that he does not understand why the international community does or does not recognize the election. “There are two reasons why people do not vote: one is because there is no one they support, and the other is because they do not vote due to security concerns. Those who vote do so because there are people they support. That is their free choice. We do not understand why foreign countries recognize or do not recognize this. We will recognize the people’s votes,” the coup leader said. The military junta began holding Phase 3 of its election early this morning, January 25, across 61 townships nationwide.