Myanmar’s military junta on Thursday announced the end of the state of emergency imposed after its 2021 coup and unveiled a leadership reshuffle aimed at preparing for a general election expected in December.
The announcement, which came as the latest six-month extension of emergency rule expired at midnight, included the dissolution of the State Administration Council and the transfer of all administrative powers to the military-controlled National Defense and Security Council (NDSC).
Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of the military government, stepped down from his roles as chairman of the military council and prime minister. However, he retained influence by assuming the position of acting president and taking the helm of a newly formed body, the State Security and Peace Commission, further solidifying his control over the country’s political future.
Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, the military’s spokesperson, said the emergency rule was lifted to facilitate the election process, stating that elections would be held within six months of the decree’s expiration.
Despite the announcements, the prospects for credible polls remain bleak, with much of the country engulfed in civil war and fierce opposition to military rule. Armed resistance has escalated since the coup, and opposition forces have vowed to disrupt any election they see as illegitimate.
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The military seized power on February 1, 2021, overthrowing the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy (NLD). The coup was justified on claims of electoral fraud, though international observers found no significant irregularities in the 2020 election.
Since the takeover, at least 7,013 people have been killed and over 29,000 arrested by security forces, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners. The military contests these figures.
Although the junta has pledged elections since 2023, the timeline has been repeatedly delayed. The latest plan targets a December 2025 vote but lacks a specific date.
Critics argue the proposed election cannot be free or fair, with most NLD leaders in detention and no independent media allowed to operate. The National Unity Government (NUG), formed by pro-democracy groups and ethnic organizations, dismissed Thursday’s developments as steps toward a “sham” election.
“This is part of the regime’s strategy to manufacture a fake election,” said NUG spokesperson Nay Phone Latt. “Revolutionary forces will continue the struggle based on our roadmaps until our objectives are achieved.”
Source: Agency