Myanmar Junta Chief Announces Election Plans Amid Ongoing Turmoil
Myanmar’s junta chief has announced plans for elections in December 2025 or January 2026, claiming they will be “free and fair.” International observers have been invited, but there is skepticism surrounding the legitimacy of the vote due to ongoing violence and military repression. Previous delays and international criticism raise doubts about the elections’ feasibility and safety.
The chief of Myanmar’s junta has announced plans to conduct elections in either December 2025 or January 2026, marking the first such event since the military coup in 2021. General Min Aung Hlaing stated that these elections would be “free and fair” and noted that 53 political parties have already expressed interest in participating, as reported in the state-run newspaper, the Global New Light of Myanmar.
During a state visit to Belarus, General Min Aung Hlaing emphasized the importance of international oversight, inviting observation teams from Belarus to monitor the election process. This announcement comes amidst ongoing violence and instability in Myanmar, as the military struggles against both ethnic rebel groups and civilian resistance forces known as the “People’s Defence Forces.”
The junta’s previous attempts to organize elections have faced significant delays, including the recent extension of a state of emergency, which postpones any potential polls until later in 2025 at the earliest. International reactions have been skeptical, with Southeast Asian foreign ministers urging the junta to focus on achieving a ceasefire instead of pursuing elections. The United States has also criticized the planned elections, labeling them as a potential “sham.”
Experts have expressed deep concern regarding the legitimacy of the proposed elections, particularly in light of the military’s prior actions, including the disbanding of Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy. Human rights organizations report over 6,300 civilian deaths and more than 28,000 arrests since the coup, which has also led to displacements affecting over 3.5 million people in Myanmar.
In summary, Myanmar’s junta has announced its intention to hold elections by early 2026 amid ongoing political turmoil and dissent. The organized vote is met with skepticism from international observers who question its fairness and legitimacy due to previous military actions and significant unrest in the country. Concerns remain regarding the safety and stability of the population as the junta continues to face opposition from various factions. Without restoring peace, analysts warn that these elections may exacerbate the conflict further.
Original Source: www.gjsentinel.com
