The appointment was made in a letter sent by President U Thein Sein and read to the state hluttaw on June 25, said U Saw Nyein (Rakhine State Hluttaw, Rakhine National Party, Kyauktaw township).

The appointment has caused controversy, with RNP representatives in particular, opposing the appointment on the basis that the Maj Gen is not a Rakhine native.

“We have no voice on this issue as we live within the limitations under the constitution,”said U Aung Mya Kyaw (Rakhine State Hluttaw, RNP, Sittway township) on June 24.

Speaking to Mizzimain an exclusive interview ahead of his appointment.

In response to criticism ahead of the anticipated appointment, Maj Gen Maung Maung Ohn – in an exclusive telephone interview with Mizzima on June 24 – said he had no direct comment to give on the opinions of locals and the RNP.

The former Deputy Minister for Border Affairs and head of the Rakhine State’s Emergency Coordination Centre did however say he would “serve in the position of chief minister as if I were a local.”

“Rakhine State has fallen below Chin State to now have the lowest living standards in Myanmar, but I think Rakhine State can step up and improve its situation if the government can respond to its needs with the necessary development plans,”Maj Gen Maung Maung Ohn said.

The Maj Gen added, “I believe that given time, Rakhine State will be peaceful and stable and all its people will come to understand and trust me.”

The new appointment is not universally opposed from within the ranks of the RNP.

“Maj Gen Maung Maung Ohn has been involved in matters of Rakhine State’s affairs in the pastand I believe he will perform in the best interests of Rakhine State”, said Daw Khin Saw Wai (Pyithu Hluttaw, RNP, RathayTaung township, Rakhine Sate).