Major cabinet reshuffle within SPDC

DVB (August 26,2003)

Gen Khin Nyunt, the former SPDC Secretary -- 1, is appointed to be the new prime minister after a major cabinet reshuffle on Monday (25 August). According to the state owned media, the shift aims at "effective administration of duties".

Gen Khin Nyunt has been in power since 1988. For many observers, he is considered as the "brain" of the military government because he was the military intelligence (MI) chief.

Sen Gen Than Shwe was the former Prime Minister. Now, he will continue to be the chief of the ruling SPDC (State Peace and Development Council) and the defense minister.

Meanwhile, Gen Soe Win, the former SPDC Secretary -- 2 will replace Gen Khin Nyunt and become the SPDC Secretary -- 1.

Former SPDC member, Lt Gen Thein Sein, will be the SPDC Secretary -- 2.

In addition, five ministers and two deputy ministers were removed from the positions. Among them was Brig Gen David Abel, a minister at the prime minister office. He was responsible for prompting foreign investment.

According to the state-owned media, he was "permitted to retire".