Chinese Drone Deal Behind Downfall of Myanmar Junta’s Chief Propagandist

China was behind the sudden dismissal of Myanmar junta chief propagandist Maj-Gen Zaw Min Tun late last month after his involvement in procuring restricted Chinese drones was flagged by Beijing, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The Irrawaddy broke the news about his removal as junta spokesman, a post he had occupied since the military coup in 2021. The reason behind his dismissal remained unclear at the time.

However, The Irrawaddy learned that the purge stemmed from information delivered by Chinese Special Envoy Deng Xijun during his visit to Naypyitaw on March 13. Deng provided evidence that Zaw Min Tun brokered the sale of Chinese drones to a Myanmar company, despite Beijing restricting their purchase outside of China.