Dhaka, July 31 -- Myanmar's military junta on Thursday announced the end of the state of emergency imposed after its 2021 coup and unveiled a leadership reshuffle aimed at preparing for a general election expected in December.

The announcement, which came as the latest six-month extension of emergency rule expired at midnight, included the dissolution of the State Administration Council and the transfer of all administrative powers to the military-controlled National Defense and Security Council (NDSC).

Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of the military government, stepped down from his roles as chairman of the military council and prime minister. However, he retained influence by assuming the position of acting president and taking ...