Than Shwe

Than Shwe (Burmese: သန်းရွှေ; born 2 February 1933) is a Burmese military officer who served as the head of state of Myanmar (Burma) from 1992 to 2011 as Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC). He was a key figure in the country's military junta for many years, rising through the ranks to become commander-in-chief of the Tatmadaw (Myanmar's armed forces) and eventually the de facto leader of the nation.

Than Shwe oversaw a period of significant political and economic change in Myanmar, albeit under strict military control. While his regime implemented some market-oriented economic reforms, it remained highly authoritarian, suppressing dissent and maintaining a tight grip on power. Elections were held in 2010, which Than Shwe claimed marked a transition to civilian rule; however, these elections were widely criticized as being neither free nor fair.

During his time in power, Than Shwe was accused of widespread human rights abuses, including the suppression of political opposition, the use of forced labor, and the persecution of ethnic minorities. International sanctions were imposed on Myanmar during his rule due to its human rights record and lack of democratic progress.

Than Shwe retired as head of state in 2011, ostensibly handing power to a nominally civilian government led by President Thein Sein, a former general in his regime. Despite his retirement, Than Shwe is believed to have retained considerable influence behind the scenes in the years that followed. His legacy remains controversial, marked by both periods of limited economic reform and a continued history of human rights violations and authoritarianism.