Burma strongman back under new title

PHOTO

Burma junta leader Than Shwe (left) meets UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2009. [AFP]

Last Updated: Wed, 30 Mar 2011 20:02:00 +1100

Burma's state television says the country's military regime has officially been dissolved.

But the country's long-time military strongman, Than Shwe, will continue to rule the country under a different official title.

Prime Minister Thein Sein has been sworn in as president.

He left the army for civilian life to take part in last year's controversial election.

A new commander in chief of the army has replaced Than Shwe.

Last year's election, the first in in 20 years, was marred by the absence of democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi's party, and claims of cheating and voter intimidation.