When Myanmar's armed forces, known as the Tatmadaw, seized power on Feb. 1, observers of the country everywhere were caught off guard.

Myanmar's decadelong transition through two consecutive and successful elections from military dictatorship to gradual democratization lured many into thinking that reversal and closure were unthinkable. As none saw it coming, all will need to use the benefit of hindsight to explain their lack of foresight. At issue now is Myanmar's civil-military relations and their impact on the future at home, as well as the regional repercussions and geopolitical implications.

asia.nikkei.com/Opinion/Myanmar-s-military-will-struggle-to-hold-on-to-power