Naypyidaw, Myanmar (BBN)-Myanmar’s parliament has elected Htin Kyaw as the next president, the first civilian to lead the country after more than 50 years of military rule.
Htin Kyaw is a close ally of Aung San Suu Kyi, whose National League for Democracy (NLD) party swept to victory in historic elections in November.
He beat another NLD candidate and one put forward by the military, reports BBC.
Suu Kyi is barred from the post due to a constitutional clause, but has said she would be above the president.
Htin Kyaw won with 360 of the 652 votes cast.
In second place was military-nominated Myint Swe, who received about 200 votes, followed by the other NLD candidate, Henry Van Thio who got 79 votes.
They will serve as first vice-president and second vice-president respectively.
BBN/SK/AD