Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Htin Kyaw
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question tests knowledge of recent political history in Myanmar, also known as Burma. After decades of military rule, Myanmar experienced a transition toward a civilian government in the mid twenty ten decade. Recognizing who held formal positions such as President is important for understanding Southeast Asian politics and for current affairs relevant to international relations and regional diplomacy, especially because India shares a long border with Myanmar and engages with it in strategic initiatives.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The key concept is to distinguish between formal constitutional offices and de facto leadership. In 2016, following democratic elections, Htin Kyaw became the first civilian President of Myanmar in many decades. Aung San Suu Kyi, though the most prominent political leader, could not become President due to constitutional restrictions and instead served as State Counsellor. Myint Swe and Henry Van Thio have served as Vice Presidents or acting leaders but were not the primary civilian President at the time in question. Therefore, the correct choice is Htin Kyaw.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that after the 2015 elections in Myanmar, a civilian government was formed under the National League for Democracy.
Step 2: Note that Htin Kyaw was elected as President in 2016, becoming the formal head of state.
Step 3: Recognize that Aung San Suu Kyi, though the main leader of the ruling party, became State Counsellor rather than President.
Step 4: Remember that Myint Swe and Henry Van Thio served as Vice Presidents or in other constitutional roles, not as the primary President during that period.
Step 5: Conclude that Htin Kyaw is the correct answer.
Verification / Alternative check:
Reliable news archives and political profiles of Myanmar clearly state that Htin Kyaw assumed office as President in March 2016. They also explain that Aung San Suu Kyi, constrained by constitutional provisions, took the role of State Counsellor. Myint Swe is mentioned as a Vice President and later as acting President after political upheavals, while Henry Van Thio has served in a vice presidential capacity. These details confirm that Htin Kyaw was the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar in the mid twenty ten decade.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Aung San Suu Kyi is the most famous democratic leader of Myanmar but did not hold the office of President due to constitutional restrictions. Myint Swe was a Vice President and later acting President in a different context, rather than the original civilian President after the 2015 elections. Henry Van Thio has also been a Vice President. Only Htin Kyaw fits the description of the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar at that time.
Common Pitfalls:
Many candidates mistakenly choose Aung San Suu Kyi because of her international fame, without recalling the specific constitutional bar that prevented her from being President. Others may confuse later political developments and acting positions with the original appointment in 2016. To avoid such mistakes, it is important to distinguish between official titles and overall influence, and to pay attention to time frames mentioned in questions.
Final Answer:
Htin Kyaw served as the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar in the mid twenty ten decade.
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