Than Shwe

Than Shwe ordered the house arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of the National League for Democracy. She remained under detention for most of the next two decades, becoming a symbol of resistance.

Than Shwe became the head of the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) after a coup that ousted the previous junta leader. He consolidated power and ruled Myanmar with an iron fist.

Than Shwe announced a seven-step 'Roadmap to Democracy' that included a new constitution and elections. Critics viewed it as a ploy to legitimize military rule, as the constitution reserved 25% of parliamentary seats for the military.

Than Shwe ordered a violent crackdown on the Saffron Revolution, a series of protests led by Buddhist monks. Security forces killed dozens and arrested thousands, drawing international condemnation.

Than Shwe formally stepped down as head of the junta, handing power to a nominally civilian government led by Thein Sein. He remained influential behind the scenes, but his departure marked the end of direct military rule.