Myanmar’s junta has hinted at postponing elections again, vowing to end the crisis caused by the military coup in the country. A national census will be held in the country by the end of next year, they said.
Myanmar has been in a state of turmoil since the military seized power in 2021. Subsequently, fighting between the military and anti-coup forces in various parts of the country led to a widespread crackdown on dissent.
Myanmar’s Global New Light, citing Immigration and Population Affairs Minister U Myint Kiang, said that from October 1 to 15, 2024, “a nationwide census will be held simultaneously.”
Earlier, junta Chief Min Aung Hlaing said a national census was needed to ensure “correct” voter registration in the country of 54 million people. Since the 2021 coup there have also been reports indicating changes to who and how parties can register for elections, seemingly set up to disenfranchise certain groups.
He also said, “New elections can be held only when the country is ‘stable’.”
Last February, the junta government announced a six-month extension of the state of emergency. Then they postponed the election saying that it will be held in August.
However, observers say that no new election can be free and fair in Myanmar’s current situation.
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