Myanmar’s junta-backed election draws criticismーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• 2021 Myanmar Coup: The military seizure of power in February 2021, overturning the democratically elected government.
• Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP): The military-backed political party dominating the current election.
• Pro-Democracy Movement: Groups and individuals opposing the military junta and advocating for a return to democratic governance.
• Ethnic Armed Groups: Various armed organizations representing Myanmar’s diverse ethnic minorities, often in conflict with the military.
• Shadow Government: The National Unity Government (NUG), formed by ousted lawmakers and pro-democracy activists.
• Legitimacy: The military’s attempt to gain international and domestic acceptance of its rule through the election.

Myanmar’s Contested Election: A Detailed Overview

This report details the general election currently being held in Myanmar, the first since the February 2021 military coup. The election is occurring amidst ongoing armed conflict between the military (the Tatmadaw) and both pro-democracy movements and various ethnic armed groups. The situation is characterized by widespread condemnation from the international community, which views the election as illegitimate.

USDP Dominance and Exclusion of Opposition

The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), closely aligned with the military, is demonstrating a significant lead in the election. Campaign rallies, such as one held in Yangon, prominently feature candidates pledging loyalty to the military. A key factor contributing to the USDP’s advantage is the systematic dismantling of pro-democracy parties following the coup. Many opposition parties have been forcibly disbanded, effectively excluding them from participating in the electoral process. This exclusion is a central point of contention and fuels accusations of a rigged election.

Controversial Participation and “Realistic Negotiations”

The participation of certain individuals within nominally opposition parties has drawn criticism. Koko Zi, founder of the People’s Party, exemplifies this controversy. Despite a history of nearly 20 years of imprisonment for opposing military rule under the previous junta led by Ne Win (referred to as “an Sansui” in the report), Zi now rarely criticizes the Tatmadaw. He defends his party’s participation by stating they are engaging in “realistic negotiations” with the military and have reached “a certain level of agreement on democratic reforms.” This stance is viewed by pro-democracy activists as a betrayal of the movement’s principles.

Suppression of Dissent and Military Operations

In the lead-up to the election, the military implemented increasingly restrictive measures to suppress dissent. A law enacted in July specifically targets speech and actions deemed critical of the election. State media reports indicate that over 200 individuals have been prosecuted under this law. Simultaneously, the military intensified its military operations against resistance forces. Analysts suggest this offensive serves a dual purpose: expanding territorial control and boosting voter turnout in areas under military control to bolster claims of electoral legitimacy. This tactic aims to create an appearance of popular support for the election.

International Condemnation and Resistance Rejection

The military’s assertion that it is “not concerned with whether the international community approves this election for our people” highlights its defiance of international pressure. The pro-democracy shadow government, the National Unity Government (NUG), unequivocally rejects the election as “a complete sham” and calls for its rejection by the international community. This sentiment is echoed by Myanmar citizens who have fled the country due to the ongoing conflict.

Human Cost and Continued Resistance

The report highlights the human cost of the conflict through the story of a former resistance fighter receiving treatment at a medical facility on the Thai border. Having lost his arm and sustained spinal injuries in a military airstrike, he remains committed to the fight for democracy, stating, “Democracy cannot be achieved through the election under military rule. As long as the dictatorship continues, we have no choice but to keep fighting.” This underscores the unwavering resolve of the resistance movement despite the severe consequences.

Outlook and Lack of Improvement

Election results are anticipated later this month. However, given the widespread rejection of the election by resistance forces and the exclusion of much of the opposition, the report concludes that there is “little chance the situation will improve.” The election is unlikely to resolve the political crisis or bring about a return to democratic governance in Myanmar.