The voting of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Arakan State depends on the security situation according to Daw Tin Hlaing, Chair of the Arakan State Election Sub-Commission.

Many IDP camps are located in areas which have seen fighting between the Tatmadaw (Burmese Army) and the Arakan Army (AA) where there are still security problems.

“We can arrange for IDP voting if their gathering points are located in safe places. The polling stations may be moved. We can do it if the UEC gives the green-light. Security is of great importance,” she said.

“The UEC will announce the IDP voting when the election draws close. It depends on the latest development. They (IDPs) may cast their votes if the situation is ok in the future. I cannot say it exactly. There may be changes later,” she added.

There are around 200,000 IDPs who fled their houses due to military operations in Arakan State according to the statement by the Rakhine Ethnics Congress (REC) on 7 July.

The IDPs show low interest in the 2020 General elections as they have to face many difficulties relating to their daily survival and health.

The election commission plans to open around 2600 polling stations in Arakan State. There are more than 1,600,000 eligible voters in Arakan State.