CNI News
April 8, 2026
Political parties and analysts are closely monitoring the role and inclusion of non-Bamar ethnic groups in the new government and parliament (Hluttaw) formed following the 2025 general election.
The 2025 general election in Myanmar was held in three phases, spanning from December 28, 2025, to January 25, 2026.
Following the polls, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) emerged victorious nationwide. In collaboration with the Myanmar military (Tatmadaw), the party is currently forming the Union Government, regional and state governments, and the parliament.
Perspectives from Ethnic Leaders Sai Htay Aung, Chairman of the Tai-Lai (Shanni) Nationalities Development Party (TNDP), spoke to CNI News regarding the current administrative structure. He noted slight differences compared to the formation of U Thein Sein’s government:
Inclusion in States: He observed that in Shan State, representatives from the Pa-O and the "White Tiger" (SNDP) parties have been included in the state government. Similarly, Pa-O and Mon representatives are involved in the Mon State government, fostering a sense of unity.
View of the Union Parliament (Pyidaungsu Hluttaw)
Regional Leadership: He pointed out that in states like Kachin and Shan, ethnic Kachin and Shan individuals have become Chief Ministers, respectively.
Concerns over Decentralization: He questioned whether State Chief Ministers are being given full authority or if the President maintains tight control, noting a shift from the "uniform" approach seen during U Thein Sein’s era.
Warning on Conflict: "If we view this as prioritizing one ethnic group over another, internal armed conflict could intensify. The current government's biggest challenge is the ethnic issue," Sai Htay Aung warned.
He further expressed that the current structure does not yet resemble a National Unity Government. He had hoped for political party members to be appointed as deputy ministers—as was done during the Thein Sein administration—to increase public trust among those who support various ethnic parties.
Comparisons to Previous Administrations Military and political observers are watching whether Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who has assumed the Presidency, can replicate the ethnic engagement strategies of the U Thein Sein era.
Ethnic youths seen
Dr. Aye Maung, Chairman of the Arakan Front Party (AFP), told CNI News that he wishes to see the current government adopt U Thein Sein’s approach to maintaining ethnic unity: "U Thein Sein worked very hard during the first five-year transition period to ensure ethnic solidarity did not crumble. However, the NLD dismantled those efforts... They treated ethnic-based parties as insignificant. Ethnic groups now look back on U Thein Sein’s approach with appreciation. I want to see Senior General Min Aung Hlaing follow that same path of approaching ethnic unity."
Recent Developments April 3, 2026: The Union Parliament elected Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing as President.
April 6, 2026: The Union Parliament announced the formation of 31 ministries.
April 7, 2026: The appointment of 30 Union Ministers was officially announced.
