The military junta could secure immunity from prosecution for its past crimes if it manages to hold elections, warned human rights and democracy activist Thinzar Shunlei Yi.
Speaking at a press conference organized by the Strategic Initiative Forum (SIF) and the Anti-Sham Election Campaign Committee (ASECC), Thinzar Shunlei Yi explained that an election would allow the junta to replace its own officials, potentially granting legitimacy to figures currently facing international legal action.
“If the election goes ahead, they can simply swap out their people. The best example is that figures like Min Aung Hlaing, who are under an ICC arrest warrant in Argentina, would automatically gain legitimacy. They could become presidents, and those responsible for past crimes would receive full immunity. It’s as easy as changing uniforms and taking office. This would result in widespread immunity and inflict deep psychological wounds on our people and future generations,” she said.
She further warned that by holding elections, the junta could manipulate international perception, framing opposition forces as rebels or enemies of peace.
Analysts also suggest that China, Russia, and neighboring countries are backing the junta’s planned elections.
U Myo Kyaw, spokesperson for the Arakan League for Democracy (ALD), stated that the upcoming election could be the most fraudulent in Myanmar’s history.
“In terms of structure, this could be the worst election we have ever had. Voters will be casting ballots under the threat of guns and knives,” he said.
Military tensions remain high across the country, with armed conflicts continuing in various regions. The junta has stated that elections can only take place once these conflicts subside. On February 21, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing reiterated that ethnic armed groups were attempting to establish control over their territories, prolonging the fighting.
Padho Saw Taw Nee, spokesperson for the Karen National Union (KNU), warned that sham elections in ethnic territories could lead to unpredictable consequences.
“Ethnic resistance forces have long-established governance structures. We control territories, command troops, and have an administrative system that has functioned for years. We operate like a real government, even if we don’t officially call ourselves one. We have our own electoral processes to select our leaders,” he stated.
He emphasized that ethnic armed groups would not be responsible for any consequences arising from elections imposed in their territories.
The National Unity Government (NUG) has vowed to disrupt the junta’s elections by any means necessary, and revolutionary forces have issued statements declaring their opposition.
