Deputy Junta Chief Signals Myanmar Military Leadership Shake-Up

Myanmar’s deputy junta chief Vice‑Senior General Soe Win told a gathering of retired senior officers on Thursday that changes in the military leadership would follow Friday’s 81st annual Armed Forces Day commemoration—a remark widely seen as confirming expectations that Senior General Min Aung Hlaing will step down as commander‑in‑chief.

Speaking at a ceremony honoring retired generals, Soe Win said the regime would hand power to the newly elected government “within days,” and that a reshuffle at the top of the armed forces would take place after the Armed Forces Day events. Regardless of who assumes key posts, he said, the military would continue to follow the guidance of past commanders, uphold its doctrine, and adhere to its longstanding institutional roadmap. He insisted that “The Tatmadaw [Myanmar’s military] takes precedence over any individual.”

His comments come amid widespread speculation that Min Aung Hlaing will lead the incoming government as president.