Military leader Min Aung Hlaing has removed General Moe Aung, son of former Industry Minister Aung Thaung, from both military and civilian positions, excluding him from the new government cabinet and military commission, according to sources in Naypyidaw. This decision came during a Security Council meeting on July 31, where the military council was dissolved and new government and military commission structures were established. During this reorganization, General Moe Aung was notably absent from the appointments and was effectively forced into retirement.
According to Naypyidaw sources, General Moe Aung was not seen at the final State Administration Council farewell ceremony on July 30, indicating strained relations with the Commander-in-Chief. Moe Aung, a graduate of the Defense Services Academy Intake 28, is the son of Aung Thaung, who was a trusted associate of former dictator Than Shwe. He had risen to the position of Commander-in-Chief (Navy) in 2021 but was removed from this position on January 8, 2024. Following his removal from the naval position, he was appointed as National Security Advisor and Minister of State Administration Council Chairman’s Office Ministries No. 4 and No. 1.
After his removal from the Navy Chief position, his new ministerial roles were largely ceremonial, with office hours only from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, according to sources. The deterioration in relations with the Commander-in-Chief reportedly involved disputes over UAB Bank’s dollar exchange rate policies and competition over business projects and tender rights with the Commander-in-Chief’s son. These conflicts ultimately contributed to his removal from positions of influence within the military government structure.
General Moe Aung’s family owns UAB Bank and IGE Company, which previously secured numerous military-related projects and tenders. However, in 2024, many of these business permissions and tenders were revoked by the military. Moe Aung has three siblings – Nay Aung, Pye Aung, and Khin Ngu Yee Phyo – who jointly own UAB Bank and IGE Company. Business analysts suggest that his removal from the new military council government may have significant implications for their business operations. The family’s business empire, which once thrived under military connections, may face new challenges following this political development.
