Myanmar’s military leadership

Published 10:55 pm Monday, October 1, 2007

A look at the insular military leadership behind the recent crackdown in Myanmar, which is also known as Burma:

How did they come to power?

The State Peace and Development Council, as Myanmar’s ruling junta is formally known, replaced another dictatorship in 1988 after suppressing a pro-democracy uprising.

Who are they?

There are 12 members on the council, but first among equals is Senior Gen. Than Shwe, 74, an uncompromising hardliner. No. 2 is Deputy Senior Gen. Maung Aye, 69, known for his ruthless suppression of Myanmar’s ethnic rebels.

How do they keep power?

Myanmar has a 400,000-man military, one of the largest in Asia. Soldiers live in isolated barracks, secluded from civilian life; their families are provided with housing as well.

Who are their allies?

China, the regime’s man ally, and India curry favor with the junta because of Myanmar’s strategic location on the Indian Ocean and its oil and natural gas resources.

Who are their critics?

The United States, the European Union and other Western nations have slapped economic sanctions on the regime and urged it to embrace a peaceful, democratic transition. Rights groups have sharply criticized its human rights record.