President Thein Sein

Myanmar’s military nominated a former general with close ties to the previous junta to become a vice president, disappointing observers who had hoped to see a known reformer named to one of the country’s top posts.

President Thein Sein has guided Myanmar through a series of dramatic changes over the past year, opening its economy to Western investors and loosening restrictions on dissidents after decades of harsh military rule. But experts have questioned whether he has the full support of other leaders. He also is believed to suffer from heart disease, raising fears he might not be able to lead the country long enough to see through a full political and economic transformation. More…