Myanmar junta extends emergency rule blames 'terrorist acts' for failure to hold elections

Myanmar junta extends emergency rule blames 'terrorist acts' for failure to hold elections

Myanmar's military government extended the state of emergency for another six months on Wednesday, as reported by state media. The junta, which has faced increasing challenges in maintaining control amid widespread fighting and an economic crisis, stated the extension is to allow more time to gather population data for voter lists ahead of a promised election next year.

The emergency rule was initially declared for a year following the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the elected civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

The coup triggered widespread protests, which the military swiftly and violently suppressed.

The extension, which has been renewed every six months, comes in the context of a protest movement that has evolved into an armed insurgency. This uprising is now posing a serious threat to the military's control.

‘It is necessary to restore peace and stability because of ongoing terrorist activities,’ state-run media said regarding the latest extension. The statement referred to actions by the armed resistance.

Recently, Min Aung Hlaing, the junta chief, took on the responsibilities of Myanmar's president after the nominal head of state was placed on medical leave owing to a prolonged illness.

Min Aung Hlaing has assured that a multi-party election will be conducted, stating in June that the polls are scheduled for 2025. The initial timelines for elections have been delayed, citing continual violence as the primary reason.

The military took over after alleging fraud in the November 2020 general election, which Aung San Suu Kyi's party won overwhelmingly. The party denied these claims, and election monitoring groups reported no evidence of widespread fraud.