Myanmar Junta Lifts Emergency, Sets Stage for December “Election” as Military Chief Retains Power

Naypyidaw (Myanmar) – Myanmar’s military announced a formal power transfer to a civilian-led interim government on Thursday. The move ends the state of emergency imposed after the 2021 coup. However, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing remains in full control as acting president and commander-in-chief.

Myanmar Forms Election Commission Under Junta Control

State media confirmed the creation of a new 11-member election commission. Min Aung Hlaing also leads the commission. Authorities say elections will happen in December, though no exact date is set.

A census last year showed the military could only reach 145 of 330 townships. Resistance forces control large parts of the country, limiting the regime’s ability to conduct a nationwide vote.

Junta Criminalizes Dissent Before the Poll

The military passed a new law banning speech or protests that could disrupt the election. Violators face up to 10 years in prison. Opposition groups, including the exiled National Unity Government, have vowed to boycott the vote. They call it a “sham” designed to keep the generals in power.

People wearing helmets and hats, some of them masked, crouch close to the ground and aim homemade weapons such as slingshots.

“Second Chapter” Offers No Real Reform

Min Aung Hlaing declared Myanmar was entering a “second chapter.” He claimed the shift was a step toward multi-party democracy. However, critics say the change is only cosmetic.

The National League for Democracy (NLD), which won the 2020 election, remains banned. Its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, is still in detention. Most real opposition parties are barred from running.

Civil War and Displacement Worsen

Myanmar’s election plans unfold amid civil war. The military controls only limited areas. Ethnic armed groups and pro-democracy fighters hold large territories, especially in border regions.

The conflict has displaced more than 3.5 million people. Rights groups accuse the military of mass killings, torture, and airstrikes on civilians—charges the junta denies.

Global Response Divided

China expressed support for Myanmar’s political transition. It urged “peace and reconciliation.” Meanwhile, Western governments condemned the election. They said it cannot legitimize military rule or represent the people’s will.

Outlook: Military Rule to Continue

Analysts say the election will likely cement Min Aung Hlaing’s power. He is expected to stay in office as president or military chief after the vote.

The junta is changing appearances, but real power stays with the military. The December election, widely rejected by opposition and the international community, will likely entrench dictatorship, not democracy.

Myanmar parliament- Pyidaungsu Hluttaw 

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