After the 2021 Myanmar coup d'état, Than Swe was appointed as the head of the Union Civil Service Board, until August 2022.[2] During his term, he reinstated policies during the Than Shwe era, including military-style uniforms for civil servants, and requirements to undergo military training and shooting practice for civil servants.[2] He was appointed chair of the Anti-Corruption Commission of Myanmar on 19 August 2022.[5] In November 2022, he was sanctioned by the European Union, for his role in legitimising the military coup and involvement in legal proceedings against the deposed leaders.[6]
On 1 February 2023, the State Administration Council, Myanmar's military junta, appointed Than Swe as Minister for Foreign Affairs, replacing Wunna Maung Lwin.[2] On 3 August 2023, he was additionally appointed as a deputy prime minister.[7]
Personal life
Than Swe is married and has two daughters.[1] His son-in-law, Aung Ko, was President Thein Sein's primary interpreter from 2011 to 2016.[1]
1 Than Swe is currently recognized as Myanmar's official Foreign Minister by ASEAN, instead of Ko Ko Hlaing (despite the latter currently serving as Myanmar's Minister of International Cooperation).