The scenario is one we have observed numerous times. A military official takes control of a nation by force. Soon after, those who oppose the new regime find themselves imprisoned or driven to leave the country.

Following this, a superficial election process is conducted. The ruler, who once governed in military attire, now wears a suit and tie. With this change in appearance, he claims the grand title of ‘president,’ seeking a veneer of legitimacy.

Myanmar’s current situation exemplifies this pattern. Recently, President Min Aung Hlaing addressed the Union Parliament in Naypyidaw, Myanmar. His image in a formal suit does not change the fact that his rise to power commenced through a coup.