The succeeding military regime, the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), did patronise Buddhist monasteries and some leading monks in order to attempt to legitimize their rule. They also placed monks which were supportive of the military in high positions. Senior military leaders continue to sponsor the renovations of pagodas and donate gifts to monks, which is then depicted in the state controlled media (though numerous Burmese remain suspicious of these displays). Meanwhile, persecution of Buddhists contrary to the regime, as well as persons of other religions and ethnic groups, continued. This also has led to rising ethnic tensions. One of the few Buddhist monks who successfully resisted being co-opted by the state was the Thamanya Sayadaw, a widely revered and respected figure.