Junta chief confers administrative excellence title on Arakan State government spokesman

By Admin 14 Nov 2025

DMG Newsroom

14 November 2025, Sittwe

Arakan State government spokesperson and State Advocate-General U Hla Thein has been conferred the Administrative Excellence (First Class) title by junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, according to a report in the state-run daily on 13 November.

U Hla Thein was among those receiving the first-class honour in the nationwide presentation of Administrative Excellence titles, which this year included 10 first-class, 25 second-class, and 150 third-class recipients.

U Hla Thein currently serves as a member of the Arakan State government formed by the regime following the military coup, and also holds the position of state government spokesperson.

"It is not unusual for the regime to confer a title on him. What is notable is that the award is for outstanding management. The question is whether he is considered 'outstanding' because he has not spoken out about the arrests, killings and aerial bombardments against Arakanese people. It appears the junta chief bestowed the title to create difficulties for the public," said a local political analyst.

On National Day, which falls on 14 November, the junta chief conferred titles and medals including Thiri Pyanchi, Wunna Kyaw Htin, Thura, Alinkar Kyaw Swar, and Theikpa Kyaw Swar on personnel from various ministries for what the regime described as outstanding national service, contributions to defence and security, and valorous performance.

Approximately 540 recipients from ministries including defence, health, and education, as well as individuals from the literature and music fields, were honoured this year.

"It is supposed to be a title given to someone respected by the people. In reality, it is simply a bribe to ensure loyalty to the junta chief and prevent dissent. They are just using these titles," said a young Arakanese man.

The military, led by Min Aung Hlaing, has faced widespread public opposition, protests and armed resistance nationwide since it overturned the 2020 election results and seized state power.

The regime continues to commit war crimes across the country, targeting civilians with arrests, torture and killings under the pretext of national defence and security.

Political analysts say the junta is attempting to resolve its political and military crises through a planned election, viewing the process as a means to prolong its hold on power.