Myanmar youth in exile criticize military-run election as a ‘sham’
As Myanmar prepares for its upcoming national election, many young people, particularly those in exile, are expressing deep skepticism and criticism of the electoral process orchestrated by the military junta that seized power in February 2021. Among these voices is Ng La, a tattoo artist who fled the country following the military coup. He, like many of his peers, views the election as a façade designed to legitimize the military’s grip on power rather than a genuine democratic exercise.
The military, known as the Tatmadaw, has announced that the election will take place on August 27, 2023, a move that has been met with widespread condemnation from various sectors of society, including political analysts, human rights organizations, and the international community. The junta claims that the election is a step towards restoring stability and democracy after the coup, which ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy (NLD).
However, critics argue that the election is fundamentally flawed. The military has detained thousands of political opponents, including key NLD leaders, and has imposed severe restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. The junta’s actions have led to widespread violence and unrest, with reports of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and arbitrary detentions. According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), over 24,000 people have been arrested since the coup, with many still imprisoned under harsh conditions.
Ng La, who now resides in a neighboring country, has voiced his concerns about the election’s legitimacy. He describes the military’s electoral process as a “sham” that fails to represent the will of the people. “They are trying to create an illusion of democracy while continuing to oppress us,” he said in a recent interview. His sentiments are echoed by many young Myanmar nationals in exile, who have taken to social media and other platforms to express their disillusionment with the military’s plans.
The military’s electoral strategy has been characterized by a lack of transparency and inclusivity. Many political parties have been barred from participating, and the junta has imposed strict regulations on campaigning and voter registration. The Union Election Commission, appointed by the military, has been criticized for its lack of independence and impartiality. Observers note that the election is unlikely to meet international standards for free and fair elections.
The implications of the upcoming election extend beyond Myanmar’s borders. The international community has largely condemned the military’s actions since the coup, with countries such as the United States and members of the European Union imposing sanctions on military leaders and their business interests. However, the junta has continued to receive support from certain nations, including China and Russia, complicating the international response to the crisis.
In the lead-up to the election, the military has ramped up its efforts to suppress dissent. Reports indicate that security forces have intensified crackdowns on protests and have targeted activists and journalists who speak out against the regime. The military’s actions have led to a climate of fear, with many citizens reluctant to voice their opinions openly.
Despite the challenges, young activists in exile remain committed to advocating for democracy and human rights in Myanmar. They are leveraging social media and international networks to raise awareness about the situation in their home country. Many are calling for a boycott of the election, urging their fellow citizens to reject the military’s attempts to legitimize its rule.
The upcoming election is seen by many as a critical juncture for Myanmar. While the military seeks to consolidate its power through this electoral process, the widespread opposition from the youth and other segments of society suggests that the struggle for democracy in Myanmar is far from over. The actions taken by the military in the coming weeks will likely have significant repercussions for the country’s political landscape and its relationship with the international community.
As the election date approaches, the situation in Myanmar remains fluid and uncertain. The voices of young people like Ng La, who have experienced the harsh realities of military rule, will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the narrative around the election and the future of democracy in Myanmar. The international community is watching closely, as the outcome of this election could have lasting implications for the region and beyond.
