"Burma?s cabinet reshuffle brought in loyal young blood and consolidated power among the top generals. A sign of change? Or just the same old song and dance?... The August leadership shakeup in Burma took everyone by surprise. In the wake of the Depayin attack on the opposition in May, the unprecedented condemnation from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations that followed, and the tightening of US sanctions in July, the military government reshuffled its cabinet, thrusting Gen Khin Nyunt, head of military intelligence, into the Prime Minister seat. It is the first time a spy chief has gone on to chair Burma?s cabinet. Initial reactions to the move were split. Few outside of Bangkok and Beijing heralded it as a major step forward, while the international press deemed the changes "cosmetic surgery" and "window dressing." It?s hard to say if the move is a demotion or a promotion for Khin Nyunt. Too soon to tell, perhaps, but safe to say that the spy master?s job description has been redefined..."