Myanmar Junta Chief Rushes Through New Consultative Council Law

Just weeks before a new parliament is due to convene and form the next government, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has rushed through a new Union Consultative Council Law, signing it on Tuesday. The timing and scope of the law have triggered fresh debate over how the military leader intends to shape the political landscape in the coming term.

Under the new legislation, the Union Consultative Council is empowered to provide guidance and coordination on a wide range of national matters—security, rule of law, foreign relations, the peace process and legislative issues. The mandate is broad, but the law includes a caveat: the council must not interfere with the constitutionally separated executive and judicial powers.

The law states that the council will be formed by the president, who must appoint at least five members, including a chairperson and secretary. The president must also define the council’s duties and powers. The council’s term is tied to the president’s five‑year tenure.