FROM PAGE 12

New Light of Myanmar newspaper quoted Min Aung Hlaing’s deputy Soe Win as saying at an official dinner Thursday.

Lawmakers are set to begin the process of selecting a president next week following a walkover victory by pro-military parties earlier this year in elections overseen by the junta.

Democracy monitors said the elections were stage-managed to shut out opposition.

Under the constitution, Min Aung Hlaing would have to step down from his military post to become president, and Soe Win’s comments reinforce expectations that he will do so.

He is already acting president, but taking the role on a permanent basis would bolster critics who say the transition to a new government is effectively the military transferring power to itself in a civilian disguise.

“Irrespective of who leads,” the armed forces “will continue to follow the guidance of successive leaders, advisors and mentors,” the newspaper cited Soe Win as saying in indirect speech.

Myanmar’s military mythologises itself as the only force protecting the restive nation from disintegration.

The newspaper devoted its front page to the military pageant, with an image of missile launchers before three huge statues of ancient kings that dominate the parade ground.