With the world watching closely, Myanmar began a process of political, administrative and institutional transition from 30 January 2011. After convening the parliament, elected in November 2010, the former military regime transferred power to a new government headed by former Prime Minister (and retired general), U Thein Sein. With parliamentary processes restored in Myanmars new capital of Naypyitaw, Thein Seins government announced a wide-ranging reform agenda, and began releasing political prisoners and easing press censorship.