Military-ruled Myanmar unveiled a new national flag today, just two weeks before an election that the government calls a major step in a transition to democracy but critics say is a sham. The 2008 constitution pushed through by the military called for fresh national symbols, including a new flag whose colors of yellow, green, and red would stand for solidarity, peace, and tranquility, along with courage and decisiveness. Still, the abrupt release of the new flag came as surprise. The one being replaced was introduced by the socialist government of late strongman Ne Win in 1974.
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