Myanmar's President Min Aung Hlaing on Friday defended his government's first 100 days in office and set out a five-year roadmap for his administration. This comes as the country continues to face armed conflict and international criticism. Hlaing, who seized power from a civilian government in 2021, was sworn in as president in April following an election widely criticized as a move to cement the military's grip on power.

Addressing over 900 lawmakers, officials, and military representatives in Naypyitaw, he stated that his government had laid "important foundations" by prioritizing peace and stability, and promoting national development. He outlined a plan to spend two years accelerating efforts to build a modern, developed nation based on democracy and a federal system, followed by three years of full-speed build-up. Special elections are slated for 2027 in 102 townships that were unable to participate in the recent three-phase election due to ongoing conflict.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis indicates that Min Aung Hlaing's five-year roadmap signifies a strategic move by the military leadership to consolidate its control over Myanmar. While vowing peace and development, the government is pushing controversial policies like mandatory conscription, which exacerbates public discontent and contributes to a significant outflow of young people. This plan presents a direct challenge to the international community's calls for a return to democratic rule.

Hlaing affirmed the government's commitment to implementing the military's conscription law while bolstering the armed forces and police engaged in conflict against pro-democracy activists and ethnic minority rebels. He mentioned that his administration has invited armed groups to disarm and has held talks with 13 ethnic armed organizations. He also criticized the ASEAN five-point consensus aimed at resolving Myanmar's crisis, deeming it issued without full member agreement and accusing the regional bloc of discrimination.

The Myanmar leader's address underscores the military junta's resolve to maintain power amidst escalating internal conflict and global scrutiny.

Regarding development, the government plans to proceed with 10 power generation projects, including the controversial Myitsone hydropower project, and continues efforts to build a nuclear power plant. The Myitsone project, suspended over a decade ago due to environmental concerns, remains a contentious issue. Hlaing also highlighted efforts to combat money laundering, drug trafficking, and online scam operations, noting the repatriation of over 72,000 foreigners involved in scams. He acknowledged the negative economic impact of young people leaving the country but did not directly link it to the conscription law, widely cited as a primary driver.

Nan Lin, spokesperson for the General Strike Coordination Body, a prominent non-violent activist group, commented that the speech revealed the military's intent to retain power, predicting worsening hardships under the junta's "failed policies." "No meaningful change can be expected from the junta," Nan Lin stated. "They will use the conscription law to control young people through fear, and the situation could worsen as they continue to sacrifice young people in order to hold on to power."

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the two main priorities Min Aung Hlaing highlighted for his first 100 days?
2. Where will special elections be held in Myanmar in 2027?