Myanmar’s Ruling Party Sacks Media-Friendly Spokesman

By Moe Moe 3 March 2020

Naypyitaw – The National League for Democracy (NLD) has sacked its popular Dr. Myo Nyunt as spokesman without giving a public explanation, leaving one media representative who is suffering from leukemia and is renowned for avoiding journalists’ questions.

The central executive committee (CEC) met in Naypyitaw on Sunday and Dr. Myo Nyunt told reporters that he had been dismissed. He will remain a member of the CEC.

“From now on, Dr. Zaw Myint Maung will be the only spokesman for our party,” he said without explaining the move.

“This is the decision made by the CEC and I’m not allowed to give the reason. I am no longer authorized to speak. Sayar Zaw Myint Maung will speak in the future,” said Dr. Myo Nyunt.

The four-hour meeting focused on funding and research, he said when asked if other issues were discussed.

Dr. Myo Nyunt has good ties with the media and had a reputation for always taking calls when possible.

NLD vice-chairman Dr. Zaw Myint Maung, who is also the chief minister of Mandalay Region, is suffering from leukemia. Party officials said he was recovering after receiving treatment in Bangkok.

He has been known as “Mr Ask Nothing” because he reportedly said, “Ask Nothing”, to a reporter at an event.

Mandalay journalists say he rarely takes questions.

Dr. Zaw Myint Maung told reporters: “When possible, I attend the CEC meetings and take as much responsibility as I can in the [Mandalay] government. I will be the spokesman regarding the election.”

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko

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