Welcome to This Article on Military Rule in Myanmar: A Persistent Power Structure
The Current Status of Military Rule in Myanmar
Contrary to popular belief, military rule in Myanmar has not truly ended. Despite the results of the November 2015 elections, which saw a clear win for the NLD (National League for Democracy), the military holds significant power as a result of the current constitutional framework. This situation reflects a remarkably intricate and nuanced political landscape in Myanmar.
Power Structures and the Constitution
The current constitution entrenches the military as the fourth and most powerful branch of the government, operating outside the framework of civilian authorities. According to the constitution, drafted by the military, the military retains control over critical sectors of the government, including the Ministry of Defense, Police, and Border Affairs. This explicit power over key governmental functions ensures that the military remains a dominant force in Myanmar#39;s political system.
The military also holds a permanent 25% representation in parliament through a quota system. This ensures that even when civilian governments are formed, the military's influence is not entirely eradicated. The absence of transparent and equal participation allows the military to continue exerting significant control over political and social issues in Myanmar.
Military Influence and Political Stability
The presence of the military in governance has profound implications for Myanmar's political stability and development. The military's influence often leads to a more cautious and slow-paced political environment, with the introduction of policies and reforms being carefully scrutinized and potentially delayed to maintain stability. This has both positive and negative effects on development, with some seeing it as a safeguard against radical change, while others view it as a barrier to more progressive reforms.
Despite the 2015 elections marking a significant shift in the political landscape, the military's strategic influence has ensured that it continues to play a crucial role in shaping the direction of the country. This dynamic has led to a complex interplay between civilian and military interests, often resulting in fragmented and contentious political negotiations.
Impact on Civilian Government and Policy
The civilian government in Myanmar now has authority over the majority of the country's ministries. However, the military's control over key sectors, such as defense and border affairs, remains a robust deterrent to potential civilian attempts to significantly alter the political and military landscape. The retention of these positions allows the military to maintain a veto power, which can be a significant obstacle to implementing sweeping changes.
The military's continued grip on parliament through the 25% quota further reinforces their power. This means that even when a new civilian government is formed, they must navigate a legislative environment where the military holds a permanent presence. This can lead to a less coherent and risky legislative process, as military representatives have the power to block or significantly alter proposed policies.
Conclusion
In summary, military rule in Myanmar is far from over. While the country has witnessed significant political changes, particularly following the 2015 elections, the constitutional framework continues to give the military a significant and enduring role in governance. This power structure not only affects the day-to-day operations of the government but also has profound implications for the future of Myanmar, shaping the balance of power and the pace of development.