PYIN OO LWIN (December 6) — Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the National Security and Peace Commission and Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, stated on Friday that the military’s presence in Hluttaw could be gradually scaled back, but only once democratic systems have flourished and there are no longer ethnic armed organizations operating in the country.

Speaking at a meeting with officers, soldiers, families, and cadets at the Pyin Oo Lwin station, the Senior General emphasized that the timeline for reducing the Tatmadaw's legislative quota is strictly tied to stability and the cessation of armed conflict.

The Commander-in-Chief addressed the institution's long-standing involvement in national leadership, citing "historical reasons" and "current prevailing conditions" as the primary drivers for the Tatmadaw’s continued political role. He noted that while the military's principal duty remains national defense, the security situation across successive eras has necessitated its active participation in resolving internal insurgency.

During the address, the Senior General also highlighted ongoing institutional developments, noting that upgrades are being carried out for the Tatmadaw alongside parallel reform efforts for the Myanmar Police Force.

The meeting was attended by high-ranking military officials, including the Senior General and his wife, Daw Kyu Kyu Hla; Commander-in-Chief (Navy) General Htein Win; and Commander-in-Chief (Air) General Tun Aung, along with senior officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Army) and personnel stationed in Pyin Oo Lwin.

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