Burmese military leader retires

Last Updated: Mon, 4 Apr 2011 16:15:00 +1000

Burma's junta leader, General Than Shwe, has retired as head of the military after handing power to a nominally civilian government.

Last week Than Shwe dissolved the ruling junta, following a November election that the international community had described as a sham.

The long-time strongman has ruled the country for almost two decades.

He is expected to retain an influential role behind the scenes despite his retirement.

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.

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