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Myanmar’s Controversial Election: A Bid for Legitimacy Amidst Ongoing Conflict
Yangon, Myanmar – November 19, 2023 – Myanmar held its first nationwide elections as the February 2021 military coup on Sunday, November 19th, an event widely condemned by international observers and met with widespread apathy and resistance within the contry. The junta,led by Min Aung Hlaing,has framed the election as a crucial step towards “political stability” and a return to a democratic path,but critics argue it is a calculated maneuver to consolidate power and legitimize military rule. This election unfolds against a backdrop of brutal repression, a burgeoning civil war, and a deeply fractured society.
A Low-Key Start to a Highly Contested Process
Polling stations opened at 6:00 AM local time (6:30 AM Thailand time), with initial reports indicating a slow and subdued turnout in major cities like Yangon and Mandalay. Unlike previous elections, there was a noticeable absence of the vibrant campaigning and public enthusiasm that characterized the 2015 and 2020 polls. Witnesses and local media reported a trickle of voters, a stark contrast to the long queues seen in past democratic exercises.
Min Aung Hlaing himself cast his ballot in the heavily fortified capital, Nya Pyi Taw, publicly displaying the traditional ink-stained finger – a symbol of participation - and offering a broad smile for state-controlled media.When questioned by reporters about his potential ambitions for the presidency, he deflected, stating he was not affiliated with any political party and that the selection process would follow parliamentary procedures.this response does little to quell speculation about his long-term political goals.
The USDP: A familiar Face in a New Context
The election is widely expected to result in a victory for the Union Solidarity and Growth Party (USDP), a political institution with deep ties to the military. The USDP,comprised largely of retired generals and fielding a significant proportion of candidates,is operating in a severely constrained political landscape. The disqualification of numerous candidates from opposition parties, coupled with widespread intimidation and restrictions on political activity, has effectively eliminated any meaningful competition.
“This election is not about choosing a government; it’s about the junta attempting to cement its control,” explains Lalita Hanwong, a Myanmar expert at Kasetsart University in Thailand. “The USDP, backed by the military, is positioned to form the next government, perpetuating a system of military dominance over the people of Myanmar.”
The USDP previously governed Myanmar from 2010 to 2015, following a period of quasi-civilian rule initiated by the military. Their tenure was marked by a series of political and economic reforms, but also by continued military influence and human rights concerns.Their return to power, under the current circumstances, represents a significant setback for democratic aspirations in the country.
A Nation Divided: Resistance and Repression
The 2021 coup triggered widespread protests across Myanmar,met with a brutal crackdown by the military. The violent suppression of dissent led many protesters to take up arms, forming people’s Defence Forces (PDFs) and engaging in armed conflict with the military across numerous regions.This has escalated into a full-blown civil war, with fighting raging in several states and regions.
The election is being held amidst this ongoing violence, making it unachievable to ensure a free and fair process. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk has condemned the elections,highlighting the surroundings of violence and repression. The junta’s claim that the election will pave the way for stability rings hollow for many Myanmar citizens living under the shadow of conflict and fear.
Technological innovations and international Scrutiny
In a move touted as a step towards transparency, the junta has implemented electronic voting machines in over 50,000 polling stations. Officials claim this will expedite the counting process and eliminate the possibility of fraud. However
