The following are the expectations of the CSOs and locals in Falam Township in Chin State about the 2020 General Election.

Rev. Thawng Bik, Pastor of Falam Baptist Church/CISS leader

“We want a federal democracy. I expect the new government will implement it. It is the most important thing; whatever government comes to power. I want the government to build an international school in Falam. We have a border with India. We can implement it in cooperation with the Indian government. Major human resources play a crucial role in the country’s reform. But the Chin parties have not talked about it much.

The National League for Democracy (NLD) mapping out the country’s educational reforms. But I am not fully satisfied with the reforms. Special emphasis should be placed on the education sector for more human resource development. We think that the party is important. But the most important thing is the person. No man is perfect. I want the people to vote for the candidate who is at least reliable.

Daw Mary, teacher

I want to choose a middle-age candidate who loves the Chin people and has the desire to promote the status of Chin people. I want to vote for the candidate who will serve the interests of the country and our ethnic people, rather than personal interest. The new government should put more effort into securing high standards in education. Second is road transportation and communication. We face difficulties in the rainy season. I think better communication will contribute a lot to economic growth.

Ma Alni Yway Thal, a COVID-19 volunteer

I did not get involved in the NLD or the Chin National League for Democracy (CNLD). The reason is I want to cast my vote for the candidate instead of the party. As a first point, I will choose the candidate which has a passion for politics. The second point is the candidate’s morality. I want the new government to prioritize the country’s education. As all we know, Myanmar has lagged behind the development as the country’s education has been destroyed since 1962 (the military coup) The government should put education first in order to make reforms.

Joshua Lallawmpuia, officer in-Charge of Falam Youth Literature and Culture

I prefer the candidate who prioritizes the emergence of a federal system, whichever government takes office and whichever party wins. Every citizen should have their rights respected. It will be better for Chin State or Falam Township if that right is emphasized. In my view the most important thing is to choose the candidate who can perform their duties with good discipline.