Myanmar’s military government hits back at claims its upcoming election is undemocratic, while hinting junta chief could hold a post-poll leadership role
YANGON: Myanmar’s military government has hit back at international criticism branding its upcoming elections undemocratic.
Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun addressed the criticism at a rare news conference on Sunday, stating the vote is for Myanmar, not the international community.
“The election is being held for Myanmar,” he said. “It is not being held for the international community.”
He added that the junta will proceed with its objective to return to a multi-party democratic system despite external condemnation.
The military, which seized power in a 2021 coup, is overseeing phased polls set to begin on 28 December.
It has pledged the election will mark a return to democracy and help end the country’s ongoing civil war.
However, the United Nations, Britain and Thailand have said the vote will be neither free nor fair.
International democracy monitors have described it as an exercise in rebranding military rule.
The spokesman also hinted that junta chief Min Aung Hlaing could have a leadership role in a post-election government.
When asked about Min Aung Hlaing’s political future, Zaw Min Tun cited his “experience in state duties”.
Rebel groups challenging military rule have pledged to block the election in the vast territories they control.
The junta has waged a withering pre-vote offensive and enforced harsh new legislation in areas it holds.
Protest or speech against the election is now punishable by up to a decade in prison.
The National League for Democracy party, which won the last election in 2020, has been dissolved.
Its leader, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, remains in junta detention. – AFP
