Than Shwe

Than Shwe (Burmese: သန်းရွှေ; pronounced [θáɰ̃ ʃwè]; born 2 February 1933) is a retired Burmese military officer who ruled Myanmar as the second chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, later as the only chairman of the State Peace and Development Council, as well as the commander-in-chief of Defence Services from 1992 until his resignation in 2011, and concurrently served as the eighth prime minister of Myanmar from 1992 to 2003. He previously served as the deputy commander-in-chief of Defence Services from 1985, and the vice chairman of the State Peace and Development Council, and deputy prime minister of Myanmar from 1988 until 1992.

Born in Kyaukse in Upper Burma, Than Shwe received military training and in 1953 joined the Tatmadaw (armed forces), and rose through the ranks. In 1985, he was appointed the deputy commander-in-chief of Defence Services. In 1988, following a coup d'état that followed the 8888 Uprising, Than Shwe was appointed the vice chairman of the newly formed State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) and deputy prime minister by Saw Maung, the new leader of Myanmar. In 1992, Saw Maung stepped down and Than Shwe immediately became the new leader of Myanmar.

As head of state, Than Shwe played a major role in shaping the country's political landscape. He adopted the 2008 Constitution, implementation of various policies aimed at economic development, modernization and infrastructure improvements, and as well as also being involved in efforts to stabilize the country and manage internal conflicts. In 2011, Than Shwe announced his retirement, and officially stepped down as head of state, facilitating the transition to his chosen successor, Thein Sein. As the head of the Armed Forces, he was succeeded by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

While Than Shwe's tenure recorded achievements, it also faced scrutiny and criticism, particularly regarding allegations of human rights abuses and restrictions on political freedoms. His tenure coincided with a period of political transition and international scrutiny, with Myanmar experiencing both internal and external challenges. Despite being retired, Than Shwe continues to wield significant influence within the military.