Following nearly five years of civil war that claims the life of many civilians, Myanmar has announced the date of its general election. However, some western governments doubted its fairness, viewing it as a means of the ruling generals to legitimize and secure their authority.
In February 2021, military chief Min Aung Hlaing led a coup that overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian government, claiming the need to address alleged widespread election fraud. The event triggered a civil war where several armed groups raised their opposition against the junta group.
On Monday, Myanmar’s state television announced that on December 28, the nation would hold the initial phase of its general election, while the subsequent phases will be held between December to January. Its specific date, however, will be revealed later for security reasons.
Myanmar’s current civilian-led interim government stated that the voting will be conducted in more than 300 constituencies nationwide, including the areas held by the opposition. State media also reported that a total of 55 political parties had registered for the poll.
However, some western governments dismissed the election as Myanmar’s authority banned the group that opposed the junta from taking part. There is also speculation that most of the candidates are military proxies, meant to strengthen the general’s power.
