On March 21, during a session in Japan’s Diet, Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya voiced his deep worries regarding the Myanmar military junta’s ambition to hold national elections by January 2026. This announcement coincided with Myanmar junta leader Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing’s declaration during a recent trip to Belarus, raising global eyebrows.
In response to an inquiry from an opposition lawmaker, Iwaya stated, “The Japanese government is seriously concerned that holding national elections while there has been no political progress, such as the release of those detained, including Aung San Suu Kyi, and dialogue to break through the current situation, will only invite more resistance from the Myanmar people and make a peaceful resolution difficult.”
Since the coup in February 2021, the junta has faced allegations of severe human rights violations, from extrajudicial killings to relentless assaults on civilians. The crackdown includes the unlawful detention of opposition politicians and the disbanding of their political parties, which fosters an environment where genuine elections seem unfeasible. Areas wrested from junta control face rampant abuses amidst clashes between ethnic groups and anti-junta factions.
The junta’s control is shaky, casting doubt on the potential credibility of upcoming elections. In October, a nationwide census was conducted but seemed more focused on anti-insurgency measures rather than genuine electoral preparations. With officials claiming to complete this task in only 145 out of 330 townships, the legitimacy of electoral processes becomes significantly questionable.
Japan’s stance resonates with broader opposition; Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan remarked, “We told them [Myanmar’s junta] that election is not a priority at the moment.” Similarly, United Nations human rights advocates have denounced the proposed elections, suggesting they be labelled a “fraud.” Japan’s concerns are a commendable starting point; however, it must unite with other nations, including ASEAN members, South Korea, and India, to firmly denounce the junta’s election strategy and withhold any technical assistance.
Japan’s Foreign Minister expressed serious concern over the Myanmar junta’s plans for elections by January 2026, stressing that without political progress, such as the release of detained leaders, the elections could provoke resistance. Widespread human rights abuses by the junta and shaky control over the country further undermine the credibility of these elections. Japan and other nations must collaborate to dissuade the junta from proceeding with this flawed electoral process.
The Japanese government’s apprehension regarding Myanmar’s junta election strategy highlights significant international concern over the lack of political progress since the coup. The systematic abuse and suppression under the junta render any elections virtually illegitimate. As global leaders voice their opposition, Japan is challenged to rally other nations for a more robust stance against these undemocratic plans, aiming for a pathway that ensures peace and true democracy in Myanmar.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
