Newly created advisory council opens path for Myanmar military to retain power

While the future political role of junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing remains uncertain, becoming chair of the newly formed council could grant him a formal role overseeing Myanmar’s civilian administration while staying on as the military’s commander-in-chief

Myanmar NowFebruary 4, 2026

Myanmar’s parliamentary complex and ministry zone in Naypyitaw, seen through a fence shortly after the military ousted the country’s civilian-led, elected government in the coup of February 2021 (Photo: AFP)

While the future political role of junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing remains uncertain, becoming chair of the newly formed council could grant him a formal role overseeing Myanmar’s civilian administration while staying on as the military’s commander-in-chief. . .