Former President Thein Sein will participate in the 2020 election campaign for the Union Solidarity and Development Party together with party top leaders, party spokesperson Thein Tun Oo has confirmed.

“Any party member helps with their party for its election success. U Thein Sein is from the USDP. This is why he will take part in the party’s election campaign,” said Thein Tun Oo.

For canvassing, the former President has planned to go to the townships he can afford based on his health condition. He however said whether U Thein Sein’s photo will be depicted in the party’s election campaign posters is still unknown.

“Any party will do anything within the framework of law for the success of their party in election. We can’t say exactly whether the former President’s photo will be used or not. I know he will help as much as he can. He will go to the places depending on his health.

Ex-chairman of USDP Thein Sein became President after winning the election in Zabuthiri Township Constituency in the Union territory in the 2010 general election.

He retired as party chairman in 2016 after losing in the 2015 general election. Then he served as patron of the party. He remains as party member now.

During a joint press conference of political parties held in January this year, USDP spokesperson Dr Nandar Hla Myint said former President Thein Sein would help his party with its election campaign although he doesn’t want to continue serving State duties.

The fourth respect-paying ceremony for Thein Sein took place at the USDP headquarters in Nay Pyi Taw on January 5. During the event, he stressed the need for the people to vote considering both party and personality.

He said parliamentary candidates should be selected after assessing their character and qualifications as well as their love for the religion and the Tatmadaw (military).