Story perspectives

Myanmar Junta Cancels Votes, Calls Elections a 'Sham'

12/8/2025

Center

Junta Cancels Voting

The Myanmar military junta canceled voting in nearly 1,600 village areas, citing conditions unsuitable for free elections.
Early voting has begun abroad.
Many citizens, including students, view the process as a "fake showcase."
Exiled outlet Mizzima calls the polls a "sham."
A new law threatens severe penalties for dissent regarding the election process.

Right

Sihasak Urges Peaceful Transition

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow urged Myanmar's military to peacefully transfer power after elections, deeming the poll lacking credibility.
Myanmar's armed forces seized power in a 2021 coup, triggering civil war.
Rights monitors say the junta suppresses dissent ahead of elections, which will not occur beyond its control.
Hlaing stated the military would maintain political control until democracy flourishes, with fatalities estimated at over 90,000 since the coup.

History

Historical Context

Myanmar's political turmoil intensified on February 1, 2021, when the military, led by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, overthrew the democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD) government, claiming election fraud. This coup triggered widespread protests and a violent crackdown, resulting in over 90,000 fatalities and a civil war, highlighting the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in Myanmar.

1 of 3

Junta Cancels Voting

The Myanmar military junta canceled voting in nearly 1,600 village areas, citing conditions unsuitable for free elections.
Early voting has begun abroad.
Many citizens, including students, view the process as a "fake showcase."
Exiled outlet Mizzima calls the polls a "sham."
A new law threatens severe penalties for dissent regarding the election process.

1 / 3