Myanmar‘s Acting President Myint Swe Dies After Parkinson’s Battle
Myanmar’s acting President U Myint Swe has died, marking a meaningful moment in the nation’s ongoing political turmoil. The 74-year-old former general passed away thursday morning at the No. 2 Defense Services General hospital, following a prolonged struggle with Parkinson’s disease. His death occurs amidst a civil war and widespread unrest following the 2021 military coup.
A Career Interrupted by Illness
Myint Swe served as vice president before being appointed acting president in February 2021. This appointment followed the arrest of the country’s civilian leader, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, during the military takeover. He had been fulfilling a largely ceremonial role, but his health rapidly declined in recent years.Symptoms of sluggishness and difficulty with nourishment first appeared in early 2023. A subsequent diagnosis revealed Parkinson’s disease, a progressive disorder affecting the nervous system and movement. While there is no cure, treatments can manage the symptoms.
Myint Swe sought medical attention both internationally and domestically. He received care at Mount Elizabeth Medical Center in Singapore in April 2023 and again at the Defense Services General Hospital in Myanmar between late May and mid-june 2024.
Recent Health Decline and Passing
Over the past month, Myint Swe experienced significant weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, and a decline in cognitive function.He was placed on medical leave on July 18th and hospitalized on July 24th, entering the Special Intensive Care Unit in critical condition. He ultimately succumbed to the illness on August 7th at 8:28 a.m. local time.
A national period of mourning has been declared, with flags flying at half-mast from Thursday through Monday.
Myanmar’s Ongoing crisis
Myint Swe’s death arrives at a particularly fraught time for Myanmar. The 2021 coup plunged the country into a brutal civil war, with devastating consequences for its citizens.
Civilian Deaths: Over 7,000 civilians have been killed by junta forces, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.
Detentions: More than 22,000 people remain arbitrarily detained.
Humanitarian Crisis: The United Nations estimates that 22 million people are in need of assistance.
Displacement: Over 3.5 million have been displaced from their homes due to the ongoing conflict.
The situation continues to deteriorate, demanding international attention and a renewed push for a peaceful resolution. you can stay informed about the crisis through resources like the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners and the United Nations.
