Myanmar's military-backed government announced Sunday that it has revoked the status of its permanent representative to the United Nations, Kyaw Moe Tun, accusing him of engaging in illegal activities.

The decision comes ahead of an expected meeting of the UN Credentials Committee following the UN General Assembly later this month. The committee has previously deferred decisions on Myanmar's representation at the world body.

Kyaw Moe Tun was appointed by the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi before the 2021 military coup that ousted the elected administration and sparked ongoing civil war. He publicly defied the junta in February 2021 by appealing to the international community not to legitimize the military takeover.

The government stated that Kyaw Moe Tun had been dismissed from the civil service on February 27, 2021, for failing to follow instructions. It accused him of unauthorized use of state property and mission funds while working with the parallel National Unity Government formed by ousted officials and opposition groups.

According to state media reports, authorities are working through INTERPOL, the United States National Central Bureau, American agencies, and diplomatic channels to seek legal action against him.

Pro-democracy groups and the National Unity Government have supported Kyaw Moe Tun's continued role through advocacy efforts. The UN has maintained his status as a temporary arrangement pending a credentials decision.

Myanmar has faced international isolation since the coup, with the junta struggling to gain formal recognition at the United Nations. The latest move highlights the regime's ongoing efforts to replace the envoy with its own nominee.