Ethnic Reconciliation in Myanmar: Military ceding power is the key (Obja Borah Hazarika, South Asia Monitor)

The newly sworn in government has managed to usher some incremental changes in Myanmar. Even after winning an overwhelming mandate in the recent held elections, Suu Kyi could not become President as constitutional provisions barred her from becoming one. Nonetheless, she was appointed as foreign minister and as special “state counsellor” which was a post created by the new government despite opposition from the military members of the Parliament. In another bold move, political prisoners of the junta era were freed by the NLD led government which was achieved after the military-dominated Defence and Security Council was bypassed. Suu Kyi as State counsellor also decreed against corruption and nepotism among officials. Despite these achievements, there has been precious little advance in the reconciliation of ethnic groups in Myanmar which has become one of the most glaring problems of the country

http://southasiamonitor.org/detail.php?type=sl&nid=16884

Myanmar's transition to civilian rule: A path full of hurdles (Obja Borah Hazarika, South Asia Monitor)

The election of U Htin Kyaw as President is a watershed moment in Myanmar’s history. Htin Kyaw’s government would be Myanmar’s first democratic administration since 1962 when the military seized power. Htin Kyaw's secured 360 votes from among 652 ballots cast. Myint Swe, who was the military nominee, won 213 votes, and will become the first vice president. Henry Van Tio, Htin Kyaw's NLD running mate, won 79 votes and will become the second vice president.

http://southasiamonitor.org/detail.php?type=sl&nid=16053