Maung Maung facts for kids

Maung Maung (Burmese: မောင်မောင် 11 January 1925 – 2 July 1994) was an important leader in Myanmar (formerly Burma). He served as the 7th President of the country for a short time. He was also a well-known writer and a lawyer.

Early Life and Education

Maung Maung was born on January 11, 1925, in Mandalay, which was then part of British Burma. His father, U Sint, was a lawyer, and his mother was Aye Tin. He finished high school at BTN High School.

He went on to study at Rangoon University (now Yangon University). He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1946. Later, in 1949, he received a Bachelor of Law degree.

Maung Maung continued his studies abroad. In 1950, he received a scholarship to study in the United Kingdom. He then studied international law in the Netherlands. In 1956, he earned his Doctor of Law degree from Utrecht University.

After that, he moved to the United States for a while. He was a visiting lecturer at Yale University. While at Yale, he earned another advanced law degree, a Doctor of Juridical Science, in 1962.

Career and Political Role

Maung Maung had a varied career. He worked as an English lecturer at Rangoon University. He was also an editor for the Burma Khit Newspaper. He even served as an Assistant Secretary for Burma Railways.

He played a big role in the government, especially in legal matters. From 1958 to 1960, he worked as a legal advisor for General Ne Win's government. After a military takeover in 1962, Maung Maung became the Chief Justice.

Even though he was a civilian (not in the military), he was an important member of the central committee of the Burma Socialist Programme Party (BSPP). He helped create the country's constitution in 1974. He also helped change the legal system.

Becoming President

In August 1988, there were many large protests across the country. During this time, the People's Assembly chose Maung Maung to be the President. He also became the Chairman of the BSPP.

However, his time as president was very short. The protests continued, causing a lot of disruption. On September 18, 1988, the military took control of the government again. This military takeover was led by Saw Maung.

After this, Maung Maung was no longer in public office. It was thought that he might have helped write the rules for the 1990 general election. He also held other important positions in the government over the years. These included Attorney-General and Supreme Judge-General.

Family Life and Legacy

Maung Maung passed away on July 2, 1994, in Yangon, at the age of 69. He died from a heart attack.

He had seven children with his wife, Khin May Hnin. One of his sons, Kyaw Thu, became a Brigadier-General. He also served as the Deputy Foreign Minister for a few years. Later, he became the chairman of the Union Civil Service Board.

One of his daughters, Yin Yin Oo, also became involved in politics. She joined the Advisory Board of the State Administration Council in 2021.