Myanmar Junta Reports 52% Voter Turnout in Controversial Election

Myanmar’s military junta announced that approximately 52.13% of eligible voters participated in the first phase of a national election held on December 28, 2023. This figure represents a significant decline compared to previous elections, reflecting the ongoing challenges the country faces amidst a civil conflict. The election marks the first since the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

The junta’s announcement indicated that over six million voters cast their ballots across 102 townships. Zaw Min Tun, a spokesperson for the junta, expressed satisfaction with the turnout, suggesting that it is “even in developed democratic nations” where participation can fall below 50%. He characterized the turnout as a “source of pride” for the junta. In contrast, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, a US-based nonprofit, reported that voter turnout in Myanmar’s last two general elections in 2020 and 2015 was around 70%.

International Concerns and Context

The current election has drawn widespread criticism from international bodies, including the United Nations, various Western nations, and human rights organizations. They have denounced the process as neither free nor fair, citing the exclusion of anti-junta political parties and the legal prohibitions against criticizing the elections. The Asian Network for Free Elections, which monitors electoral processes, noted that the junta’s legal framework does not stipulate a minimum voter turnout requirement, raising further concerns about the legitimacy of the election.

As the junta prepares for upcoming voting phases on January 11 and January 25, 2024, covering an additional 265 of Myanmar’s 330 townships, the situation remains precarious. The military does not maintain full control over all these regions, complicating the electoral landscape. Observers are watching closely, aware that the military-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party, led by retired generals, is expected to regain power.

The backdrop of the elections is steeped in tension, as Aung San Suu Kyi remains in detention following her removal from power. Her National League for Democracy, which secured a landslide victory in the 2020 elections, has been disbanded. The political atmosphere in Myanmar continues to reflect the deep divisions and unrest resulting from the coup, with many citizens expressing skepticism regarding the electoral process.

With further rounds of voting on the horizon, the international community is likely to remain engaged, monitoring the evolving political climate in Myanmar and the implications for its citizens.