Full Support for Ex-Spy Chief's Social Work: MP

Khin Shwe, the chairman of Zaykabar Company and a member of Burma’s Lower House of Parliament, said he will fully support former Burmese Premier Khin Nyunt’s social work as the ex-spy chief acted in the interests of the country while in power.

After being freed on Jan. 13, Khin Nyunt, in his 70s, founded his own social charity group called the “Shwe Hmaw Won Foundation.” It provides financial support to education, health and social community initiatives.

Khin Nyunt, also a former Burmese military spy chief, accepted the role as patron of Mya Yeik Nyo—a charitable foundation run by Khin Shwe, one of Burma’s richest men who is on the US sanction list.

Khin Shwe told The Irrawaddy that he supports Khin Nyunt in return for his work in the national interest while in power. Khin Nyunt was forced to step down in 2004 after allegations of corruption by former military junta chief Sen-Gen Than Shwe.

Khin Nyunt was infamous for punishing political dissidents while in power. He was also a key figure who ordered the oppression of political activists during the 1988 pro-democracy uprising and sentenced many to many years in prison.

“He [Khin Nyunt] was left with nothing. All of his assets were seized. He had to struggle by planting flowers to make his living while he was under house arrest,” said Khin Shwe.

“It is not suitable for him to struggle like this for his living. So, I will support him as much as I can,” he added.

But Khin Shwe denied reports that he has offered a US $5,000-a-month job to Khin Nyunt as patron of the Mya Yeik Nyo foundation.

“We don’t limit the salary for [Khin Nyunt]. We will support him for all that he needs,” he said.

Khin Shwe is accused of being a crony of the ex-military government as he gained a number of business privileges with regards construction, hotels and tourism during the military regime. He remains close to Burmese generals.

Khin Shwe explained that he will support Khin Nyunt for his social works as the former prime minister is a senior figure who has done many good deeds for Burma. But the MP gave assurances that he does not support Khin Nyunt for personal reasons.

After Khin Nyunt was released from house arrest in January, he told reporters that he would not get involved in politics but focus on social work.

While he was in power, Khin Nyunt was also successful in dealing with ethnic armed groups and reached ceasefire agreements with 17 rebel armies.