State Counsellor of Myanmar

The State Counsellor of Myanmar was a position established in 2016, often regarded as the country's de facto head of government. Created for Aung San Suu Kyi, it allowed her to lead the civilian government while the constitution barred her from becoming president due to her foreign investments and family ties. The role combined executive authority over much of government policy, serving as a bridge between the President and other ministries. In February 2021, the military staged a coup, detaining her and other leaders, which significantly disrupted Myanmar’s governance and highlighted the role’s political importance.