Myanmar Elections Under Military Control Begin Amid Violence

Voters in military-controlled areas of Myanmar participated in elections on January 7, 2024, that many observers have labelled a sham. The elections, which are phased and expected to favour the junta-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), feature a total of 4,863 candidates from 57 political parties, according to the Union Election Commission. The final results are anticipated by late January, but the vote excludes areas held by rebel forces.

This election marks the military’s initial step toward what it claims is a restoration of democracy, nearly five years after it deposed Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian government in a coup that led to widespread violence. The junta aims to leverage the elections to end its international isolation and attract renewed investments, asserting that it is adhering to the constitution under the leadership of Min Aung Hlaing.

However, the backdrop of the elections is marred by ongoing civil unrest and a brutal crackdown on political dissent. The United Nations has condemned the environment surrounding the elections as one of “fear, violence, and deep political repression.” Thousands of individuals have been detained, and major political parties, including Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD), are barred from participating.

Earlier this week, Volker Türk, the UN’s human rights chief, emphasized the threats faced by civilians from authorities to ensure participation in the elections. He stated, “The military authorities in Myanmar must stop using brutal violence to compel people to vote, and stop arresting people for expressing any dissenting views.”

Casting his vote in Zeyathiri township, Naypyidaw, Min Aung Hlaing pledged that the elections would be “free and fair,” as reported by the ruling National Defence and Security Council. Observers noted a significant presence of voters in various polling stations across the Yangon Region, with some waiting up to two hours to cast their ballots.

Security measures were heightened around polling locations, including blockades and restrictions on vehicle access. For instance, a voter in Taikkyi township, the largest in Yangon Region by geographical area, expressed frustration about the long wait times but felt compelled to participate.

The election process is divided into three phases, with the first phase covering 102 out of 330 townships. The second phase is scheduled for January 11, involving another 100 townships, while the final phase will take place on January 25, encompassing only 63 townships. Despite invitations from the junta, several diplomats from Western democracies have decided not to send election observers.

In contrast, observers from countries including Russia, China, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nicaragua, India, and the Myanmar-Japan Association are in the country to monitor the elections.

The USDP expressed confidence in reclaiming a majority of seats. Spokesman Hla Thein stated, “We believe we will win the majority of seats this time and have the capability to form a government systematically.”

Meanwhile, some opposition parties are preparing for potential defeat despite their participation. Nay Zar Lin, a member of the Myanmar Farmers’ Development Party, described the election as a “one-sided game,” but expressed hope that winning even a couple of seats could amplify the voices of local constituents in parliament.

The ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar has resulted in the deaths of an estimated 90,000 people, with large areas under rebel control and approximately half the population living in poverty. The current political and economic landscape remains fraught with challenges, raising significant concerns about the future of democracy in Myanmar.