# Zaw Min Tun (general)

Zaw Min Tun (Burmese: ဇော်မင်းထွန်း; pronounced) is a Burmese army general and the current Deputy Minister of Information in Myanmar. He holds key leadership roles within the military and government, most notably serving as the chief of the Tatmadaw True News Information Team and heading the press team of the State Administration Council (SAC), which governs Myanmar following the military coup in February 2021. Zaw Min Tun has been recognized as a senior spokesperson for the Myanmar Army, particularly following the military coup, which led to widespread political unrest and public protests. His role has been significant in the communication strategies employed by the military during this period, ensuring the conveyance of the regime's narratives to both domestic and international audiences. He oversees the distribution of information through various state-controlled media outlets, which play a critical role in shaping public perception of the military's actions and policies. His leadership positions within the military and government make him a crucial figure in Myanmar's current political landscape. His influence as a spokesperson extends not only to the management of state-run media outlets but also to the strategic direction of the military's public relations efforts, both domestically and internationally. He is tasked with defending and justifying the actions of the military regime, countering the narratives of dissent, and addressing criticisms of human rights abuses and military repression. In his various capacities, Zaw Min Tun works to reinforce the military's stance on governance, national security, and opposition to pro-democracy movements. His efforts to control public perception through carefully crafted media campaigns have become integral to the military junta’s hold on power.
Born in Yenanchaung, Myanmar, and currently holding the rank of major general in the Myanmar Army, Zaw Min Tun's rise within the military and political spheres is marked by a combination of military expertise and political strategy. He graduated from the 37th intake of the Defense Services Academy (DSA), a premier institution for training military officers, where he honed skills in military strategy, leadership, and public communication. His educational background laid the groundwork for his future roles as a key spokesperson for the Myanmar military and a figurehead within the State Administration Council, a military-dominated body that replaced the civilian government following the 2021 coup. Zaw Min Tun's military career, spanning several decades, reflects his growing influence in both the operational and communicative arms of the military. His early exposure to the media and public relations sector of the Tatmadaw (Myanmar Armed Forces) provided him with the tools to navigate the complex terrain of military governance and state-controlled media, which would become crucial during the coup and its aftermath. His leadership in both military operations and the dissemination of information has allowed him to position himself as an influential figure in shaping Myanmar's political narrative, especially in a context where the military's control of information is central to its survival amidst both domestic and international pressure. With a background in military public relations, Zaw Min Tun has been instrumental in presenting the Tatmadaw's perspective, often responding to allegations of human rights abuses and critiquing opposition movements. His efforts are aimed at reinforcing the military's position and justifying its actions in the eyes of the public, as well as attempting to maintain a semblance of legitimacy amidst ongoing scrutiny from various sectors. Through press conferences and official statements, Zaw Min Tun articulates the military's stance on key issues, including national security and governance, making him a prominent voice for the military junta. His influence extends beyond mere communication, as he is often seen accompanying high-ranking military officials, which underscores his importance within the military hierarchy. As the situation in Myanmar continues to evolve, Zaw Min Tun remains a pivotal figure in the military's ongoing efforts to control the narrative and respond to the challenges posed by dissent and international criticism.

## Early life and education

Zaw Min Tun was born in Yenanchaung, a town in central Myanmar, known for its historical significance in the country's administrative landscape. Growing up in a region that has produced several key military figures, Zaw Min Tun's early life was shaped by the broader political environment of Myanmar, which was undergoing significant transitions during his formative years. As a young man, Zaw Min Tun joined the Defense Services Academy (DSA), Myanmar's premier military institution, where he received rigorous training in military tactics, leadership, and communication strategies. The DSA, which produces many of Myanmar's top military officials, played an instrumental role in Zaw Min Tun's early development, preparing him for the unique demands of both military operations and the intricacies of public relations in a politically sensitive environment. His time at the academy exposed him to the technical and strategic elements of military leadership, but it also emphasized the role of military figures in shaping public perception, especially in regimes where the military holds significant political power. Zaw Min Tun's early exposure to these elements foreshadowed his future career as a spokesperson for the Tatmadaw and a key figure in the political communication strategies employed by Myanmar's military junta.
Beyond his education, Zaw Min Tun's personal connections within Myanmar's military and political circles also contributed to his rise. He maintained a notable relationship with Zaw Htay, the former spokesperson for the National League for Democracy (NLD) party, a symbol of the democratic opposition to the military, which was led by State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. Their shared origins in central Myanmar serve as a reminder of the deep political divides that have shaped the country's recent history. Zaw Htay's advocacy for democracy contrasts with Zaw Min Tun's alignment with the military establishment, highlighting the broader political fault lines that have influenced Myanmar's governance since the coup.
Throughout his career, Zaw Min Tun's increasing responsibilities within the military enabled him to engage in high-level discussions regarding national security and public messaging. He developed a keen understanding of the media landscape in Myanmar, recognizing the importance of shaping narratives in a politically charged environment. This insight would later prove invaluable as he took on leadership roles in military communication, particularly during critical moments in the nation's history, such as the 2021 military coup. Zaw Min Tun's educational background and military training provided a strong foundation for his rise to key positions within the government and military. Over time, he became a prominent figure in shaping and communicating the military's perspective, influencing Myanmar's political discourse during periods of instability.

### Background and appointment

Zaw Min Tun rose through the ranks of Myanmar's military, eventually becoming a key figure in the Tatmadaw. Following the military coup in February 2021, he was appointed as the spokesperson for the State Administration Council (SAC), the governing body established by the military. In this role, he managed communications and presented the junta's perspective on the coup and subsequent events.

### Role as spokesperson for the Myanmar military

As the spokesperson for the SAC, Zaw Min Tun frequently addressed the media to explain and justify the military's actions, including the detention of civilian leaders and the handling of nationwide protests. His statements reflected the SAC's position on issues such as alleged election fraud and national stability.

### International Response

Zaw Min Tun's briefings attracted significant international attention, with organizations like the United Nations and the European Union strongly opposing the military coup and its aftermath. While his statements sought to justify the junta's actions, they were met with criticism from several international governments and institutions.

### Public Criticism and Challenges

Zaw Min Tun faced scrutiny from human rights organizations and independent media. His defense of the military's handling of protests and governance was challenged, with groups such as Amnesty International raising concerns about the portrayal of events in official statements. Despite these challenges, he remained a central figure in the SAC's communication strategy.

## Military career

Zaw Min Tun's military career spans several key moments in Myanmar’s modern history, marking him as a significant figure within the Tatmadaw, Myanmar's military force. His trajectory reflects a deepening involvement in both military operations and, crucially, in the management of military communication, particularly during periods of intense political crisis.
On 5 February 2021, he was appointed as the press team leader for the State Administration Council (SAC) and as chief of the Tatmadaw True News Information Team. Shortly thereafter, on February 7, 2021, he became the Deputy Minister of Information. As Myanmar's political situation rapidly deteriorated, Zaw Min Tun was appointed to two influential roles. These appointments came just days after the 2021 February coup, which ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and plunged the country into turmoil. Despite holding the title of deputy minister, Zaw Min Tun often exercises considerable influence, sometimes surpassing that of the actual minister, former Major General Maung Maung Ohn. His role in overseeing the military's communications strategy has been central to the junta's efforts to manage both domestic and international narratives surrounding the coup and its aftermath. His close association with Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing further highlights his significant role within the military establishment.
One of the most significant events in Zaw Min Tun's recent career was the death of his nephew, Lieutenant Colonel Thet Paing Tun, a commander of the Khmer 119 Battalion. His death, following the military's defeat in the Battle of Sain Taung and his subsequent capture by Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and People's Defence Force (PDF) troops, was a poignant reminder of the ongoing conflict and the personal stakes involved in Myanmar's military confrontations.
As part of his duties, Zaw Min Tun spearheaded a series of press conferences aimed at legitimizing the actions of the SAC and defending the military's role in what it claims was a necessary intervention to preserve national security. Through these media engagements, Zaw Min Tun sought to justify the military's actions, dismiss accusations of human rights abuses, and respond to the growing international condemnation of the coup. His ability to frame the military's actions in a favorable light has made him one of the most visible and influential spokespersons for the regime. In his position as Government Deputy Minister of Information, he bears direct responsibility for state-owned media, managing the transmission of official news and shaping public perception through these channels.
In addition to his role in communication, Zaw Min Tun's career has also been marked by high-level military engagements. Before his appointment to the SAC, he held significant positions within the Directorate of Public Relations and Psychological Warfare, where he was tasked with managing the military's public image and addressing the growing discontent from the Burmese population. Notably, Zaw Min Tun's role in managing the response to the Operation 1027 offensive that took place on 27 October 2023, which is still ongoing, carried out by the Three Brotherhood Alliance including Arakan Army, Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, and Ta'ang National Liberation Army, in northern Shan State, underscored his capacity to handle sensitive military operations and communicate them to the public in ways that supported the military's objectives.
Zaw Min Tun's leadership and communication efforts have extended beyond national borders. His responses to international criticism, especially regarding the military's role in the coup and subsequent violence, have been a key element of his public persona. In international forums, he has frequently represented the military's interests, attempting to deflect criticisms of Myanmar's human rights record and promote the junta's view of governance.
On 14 February 2025, Zaw Min Tun responded to an arrest warrant issued by an Argentine court against Myanmar's military leaders for alleged crimes against the Rohingya. He dismissed the ruling, calling it "baseless" and accusing Argentina's judiciary of political interference. His remarks were part of a broader rejection by the military government of international legal actions against its leadership.
On 13 March 2025, Zaw Min Tun addressed concerns regarding Myanmar’s border with India, responding to statements by Indian politicians and media reports about Manipur and the Kabaw Valley. He reaffirmed Myanmar's sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing the country's diplomatic ties with India and referencing the 2014 Memorandum of Understanding on Border Cooperation. He stated that most of the Myanmar-India border, including the Kabaw Valley, had been demarcated. Additionally, he urged Indian politicians to avoid rhetoric that could strain bilateral relations.

### Early career and rise through the ranks

Zaw Min Tun began his military career after completing officer training at the Defence Services Academy. His early assignments included roles in various military units where he quickly rose through the ranks due to his strategic acumen and loyalty to the Tatmadaw leadership. His experience in military operations, both domestically and in border regions, positioned him for higher roles in the junta.

### Role in the 2021 Myanmar coup

As the coup unfolded in February 2021, Zaw Min Tun played a critical role in its execution. Serving as one of the senior officers in the Tatmadaw, he helped coordinate the military's actions and strategy. His leadership in the coup was pivotal, and he was appointed as the spokesperson for the newly-formed State Administration Council (SAC), the military junta that assumed control.

### Spokesperson for the State Administration Council (SAC)

Following the coup, Zaw Min Tun took on the role of the junta's spokesperson. In this capacity, he frequently addressed the media, defending the military's actions and justifying the takeover. His statements often contradicted international reports and were part of the junta's efforts to present the coup as a legitimate response to alleged election fraud.

### Military operations and actions

Zaw Min Tun has been involved in various military operations, particularly after the 2021 coup in Myanmar. As a senior officer, his responsibilities included overseeing military actions aimed at pro-democracy protesters and ethnic armed groups. These operations, which have been extensively covered by international media, were part of the military’s response to political unrest and security concerns in the country. The military's actions were framed within the broader context of the coup and the subsequent instability, which led to widespread demonstrations and resistance across Myanmar.
International sources have reported on the actions taken during these operations, including the use of force and detentions, particularly during protests. The operations were conducted in response to ongoing protests and clashes with armed groups, both of which significantly impacted the country’s political and security landscape. The situation remains an ongoing point of international attention, with various organizations and governments monitoring the developments closely.

### Response to Argentina arrest warrant

On 14 February 2025, Zaw Min Tun responded to an arrest warrant issued by an Argentine court against Myanmar's military leaders for alleged crimes against the Rohingya. He dismissed the ruling, calling it "baseless" and accusing Argentina's judiciary of political interference. His remarks were part of a broader rejection by the military government of international legal actions against its leadership.

### Zaw Min Tun addresses media queries on recent state visits and Myanmar's future prospects

On 10 March 2025, Zaw Min Tun, leader of the Information Team for the State Administration Council (SAC), responded to media inquiries regarding the official state visits of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar's Prime Minister and Chairman of the SAC to Russia and Belarus from 3 to 9 March 2025. Zaw Min Tun emphasized the key outcomes of these visits, particularly focusing on the benefits to Myanmar across three major sectors: politics, economy, and social affairs.
In the political realm, Zaw Min Tun highlighted the strengthened international relations, particularly with Russia and Belarus, both of which have long supported Myanmar on the global stage. He reiterated that both countries had assured Myanmar of continued support in the future. Regarding the upcoming elections in Myanmar, Zaw Min Tun confirmed that the earliest date for elections would be the last week of December, with the latest being the second week of January. He further noted that both Russia and Belarus had expressed their strong support for the election process, with Belarus and Russia offering to send election observers.
On the economic front, Zaw Min Tun underscored the potential for Myanmar to benefit from advanced technologies in agriculture, citing Belarus as a successful example of an agricultural-based economy. He emphasized Myanmar's abundant resources, such as water, land, and favorable weather conditions, which could help the country achieve similar agricultural successes. He also highlighted agreements related to improving Myanmar's agricultural system and securing fertilizer supplies for farmers. Additionally, he spoke about the importance of Myanmar's deep-sea ports, including Kyaukphyu, Thilawa, and Dawei, noting that efforts to develop the Dawei port had been revitalized through a new memorandum of understanding with Russia.
In the social sector, Zaw Min Tun emphasized the importance of improving Myanmar's education and healthcare systems, citing the advances made by countries like Russia and Belarus as examples.
Zaw Min Tun concluded by reaffirming that these diplomatic engagements would help Myanmar progress towards a multiparty democratic system, ensure national development, and create a positive outlook for the country's future.

### Zaw Min Tun on Myanmar-Russia nuclear and infrastructure cooperation

On 5 March 2025, Zaw Min Tun provided further details on Myanmar’s economic cooperation with Russia following the Myanmar-Russia Economic Forum in Moscow. Speaking to reporters, he confirmed that Myanmar would construct a 110-megawatt nuclear power plant using Russian technology and would also collaborate with Russia on the Dawei Deep-Sea Port project.
Zaw Min Tun described the nuclear project as a major step toward energy security, stating that Myanmar had signed agreements with Russia on the peaceful use of nuclear energy and nuclear safety regulations. He noted that the initiative was part of broader cooperation between the two countries and was expected to enhance Myanmar’s energy sector.
Regarding the Dawei Deep-Sea Port, Zaw Min Tun emphasized its significance as a strategic economic hub in Southeast Asia. He explained that the port’s location near the Malacca Strait positioned it as a key trade link between the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. He further noted that Russia already had port connections in Vietnam, and integrating these with Dawei would strengthen economic ties between Myanmar and Russia.
Zaw Min Tun also highlighted discussions between Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which led to the signing of 10 agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs), including those related to energy and infrastructure development. He reiterated that these agreements reinforced Myanmar-Russia cooperation and would contribute to Myanmar’s long-term economic growth.

## Personal life

Zaw Min Tun is married to Thin Thin Aung, and has one child Thar Htet Htun. Although details about their private life are kept relatively low-profile, their public appearances together at military events and government functions reveal a couple deeply integrated into Myanmar's political and military spheres. Their public participation in high-profile events, including military parades and state ceremonies, underscores their role in the nation's leadership structure.
While the couple maintains a private personal life, their visibility in official events highlights the intertwining of personal and political lives among Myanmar's elite military officials. This blend of professional and personal presence in public events plays a significant role in reinforcing the legitimacy of the military leadership and its ongoing control over the country's political landscape.