Myanmar regime hardliner 'becomes a monk'

Published on May 16, 2012 ...

YANGON (AFP) - A Myanmar vice-president with close ties to former junta chief Than Shwe has become a monk, officials said on Wednesday, in a move observers believe could strengthen the hand of the country's reformers.

Tin Aung Myint Oo, who is seen as one of the more reactionary members of the regime, entered a monastery on May 3, a Myanmar government official told AFP, without giving details of how long he planned to stay there.

Another official confirmed he remained in the monkhood. 'He's still a monk. We didn't know about his resignation,' he said. The government itself has remained silent on the matter.
Tin Aung Myint Oo's sudden absence has stoked speculation that he has stepped down, raising questions over whether he will be replaced by a more moderate figure.


http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/SEAsia/Story/STIStory_799562.html