Thein Sein: President of Myanmar and Reform-Era Leader
Thein Sein was a central figure in Myanmar’s political transformation in the early 21st century. Serving as President of Myanmar from 2011 to 2016, he presided over the country’s most significant political and economic reforms after nearly five decades of direct military rule. Though a former general himself, Thein Sein became widely associated with Myanmar’s transition toward limited civilian governance, political openness, and international reengagement.
His presidency marked a historic shift—from strict junta rule to a quasi-civilian government—and reshaped Myanmar’s domestic and foreign relations.
Early Life and Military Career
Thein Sein was born on 20 April 1945 in Kyonku Village, Kyonpyaw Township, Irrawaddy Delta, during the final years of British colonial rule. Like many leaders of his generation, he pursued a career in the armed forces rather than in civilian politics.
He joined the Tatmadaw (Myanmar Armed Forces) and rose steadily through the ranks. His military career was marked by administrative and regional command roles rather than frontline notoriety. Over time, he gained a reputation as a disciplined, reserved, and pragmatic officer—traits that later defined his political leadership style.
Rise Through the Military Government
Role Under SPDC
During the era of the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), Thein Sein held several senior positions, including Prime Minister from 2007 to 2011 under Senior General Than Shwe.
In this role, he was responsible for:
Coordinating government ministries
Managing administrative reforms
Representing Myanmar internationally
Although still operating within a military framework, Thein Sein was viewed as more technocratic and reform-minded than many of his contemporaries.
Becoming President of Myanmar
2010 Elections and USDP
Myanmar’s 2010 general election, conducted under the 2008 Constitution, paved the way for a new political system that retained strong military influence. The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP)—composed largely of former military officers—won a majority.
In March 2011, Thein Sein was elected by parliament as President of Myanmar, becoming the country’s first civilian-clothed head of government after decades of overt military rule.
Reform Agenda and Key Achievements
Political Reforms
One of the most defining features of Thein Sein’s presidency was his push for political liberalization, including:
Release of political prisoners
Relaxation of media censorship
Legalization of labor unions and protests
Dialogue with opposition leaders
Most notably, he initiated engagement with Aung San Suu Kyi, allowing her party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), to participate in by-elections in 2012.
Economic Reforms
Thein Sein introduced significant economic changes aimed at modernizing Myanmar’s economy:
Currency reform and exchange rate unification
Liberalization of foreign investment laws
Banking and financial sector development
Expansion of telecommunications and infrastructure
These reforms stimulated economic growth and attracted international investors after decades of isolation.
Foreign Policy and International Engagement
Under Thein Sein, Myanmar dramatically reoriented its foreign policy.
Key developments included:
Improved relations with the United States and European Union
Lifting or easing of international sanctions
Myanmar’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2014
Expanded diplomatic engagement with regional and global partners
Myanmar’s reintegration into the international community was widely viewed as one of the presidency’s most notable achievements.
Challenges and Criticism
Ethnic Conflicts
Despite reforms, armed conflict continued in several ethnic regions. Nationwide ceasefire efforts made limited progress, and long-standing grievances remained unresolved.
Communal Violence
Thein Sein’s government faced international criticism for its handling of communal violence, particularly in Rakhine State, where tensions between communities escalated.
While his administration initiated humanitarian responses, critics argued that deeper structural issues were left unaddressed.
End of Presidency and Aftermath
In the 2015 general election, the NLD won a landslide victory, signaling strong public support for further democratic change. Thein Sein accepted the results and oversaw a peaceful transfer of power—a milestone in Myanmar’s political history.
He stepped down in March 2016, handing power to a new civilian-led government.
Legacy and Historical Significance
Thein Sein is widely regarded as:
A transitional leader
A reformist within a military framework
A bridge between junta rule and electoral politics
While his reforms were incomplete and sometimes uneven, they fundamentally altered Myanmar’s political environment and created space for broader participation.
Why Thein Sein Matters Today
Understanding Thein Sein’s presidency is essential to understanding:
Myanmar’s partial democratization
The evolution of civil-military relations
The opportunities and limits of reform from within the system
His leadership remains a reference point in debates about political transition and governance in Myanmar.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Thein Sein?
Thein Sein is a former Burmese general who served as President of Myanmar from 2011 to 2016.
2. Why is Thein Sein important?
He led major political and economic reforms that ended decades of isolation and opened Myanmar to the world.
3. Was Thein Sein a civilian leader?
Formally yes, but he was a former military general and led a quasi-civilian government under military-backed structures.
4. What party did Thein Sein belong to?
He was a member of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP).
5. What happened after his presidency?
He retired from politics after overseeing a peaceful transfer of power in 2016.
6. Did Thein Sein work with Aung San Suu Kyi?
Yes. He engaged in dialogue with her and allowed the NLD to re-enter formal politics.
