Voting has concluded in Myanmar, where the military-affiliated party is anticipated to secure a decisive win in an election that has drawn widespread criticism as a facade aimed at solidifying the junta’s control. This month-long electoral process, which has been lambasted as illegitimate, continues to highlight the ongoing struggle in a nation still reeling from the fallout of a coup nearly five years ago.
A Sham Election Process
The elections took place against a backdrop of severe unrest and repression following the military coup that ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. Since then, the military, led by General Min Aung Hlaing, has systematically dismantled democratic institutions and suppressed dissent. The National League for Democracy (NLD), which had previously enjoyed overwhelming support, has been banned from participating, leaving the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) as the dominant force.
In a defiant statement, Min Aung Hlaing dismissed international critiques, proclaiming that the election reflects the will of the people. “Whether the international community recognises this or not, we don’t understand their perspective. The people’s vote is the recognition we need,” he asserted during a press conference broadcast on state television.
Low Turnout and Widespread Fear
Voter turnout was reported at a mere 55%, a stark decrease from the approximately 70% participation seen in the last election of 2020. In major cities like Mandalay and Yangon, many voters expressed trepidation about openly discussing their political views, fearing repercussions from the authorities. One voter lamented, “We miss our former government; we don’t want this military government,” highlighting the pervasive atmosphere of fear surrounding political expression.
The election process was marred by the regime’s oppressive measures, including the arrest of thousands of political dissidents and the enactment of stringent laws designed to quash any criticism of the voting process. Under this new election protection law, individuals who voice dissent can face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences or even capital punishment.
International Response and Regional Implications
The legitimacy of the elections has been roundly rejected by a host of international observers, including the United Nations, various human rights advocates, and governments from the UK, Australia, and the European Union. Conversely, China, a crucial ally to the Myanmar military, has endorsed the election, viewing it as a potential pathway to restoring stability in the region.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has also opted not to endorse the elections, with Malaysia stating that it would not send observers. Nevertheless, the extent to which individual ASEAN member states will engage with Myanmar’s leadership following the elections remains uncertain.
The conflict in Myanmar continues to escalate, with reports of military airstrikes killing civilians just days before the election. The ongoing violence underlines the fragility of the situation and the military’s struggle to maintain control over regions increasingly dominated by anti-junta resistance groups.
Why it Matters
The elections in Myanmar represent more than just a political exercise; they are emblematic of the broader struggle for democracy and human rights in the face of military authoritarianism. As the junta seeks to legitimise its rule through a heavily manipulated electoral process, the international community faces a critical juncture—whether to accept this charade as a step towards stability or to reinforce their commitment to supporting the restoration of genuine democratic governance. The outcome of these elections may have profound implications for the future of Myanmar and the geopolitical landscape of Southeast Asia.
