A total of 291 candidates from 17 political parties and 11 independent candidates have registered to run for 45 seats in Mon State.

The following is an interview with locals about the candidates, the people’s expectations for the new government

U Tin Myo Aung, the restaurant owner in Thanphyuzayat Township

Our region has a majority of ethnic Mon. In the post-election political landscape, I want to see a coalition government, ethnic candidates who embrace the interests of all ethnic groups. The candidates’ have a duty to speak up for the rights of the people. The next thing is I want to see opportunities for youth, education and sports.

Rubber production is the main business of Mon State. I want elected candidates to lead the way in ensuring rubber projects do minimal harm to the natural environment. So the governments are unable to practice democracy. Now we have experience of two civilian governments—the U Thein Sein Administration and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Administration. Our hopes and expectations have not yet been fulfilled. I expect the emergence of a new government that can change the whole system. Only then can the country build the federal democratic government we want.

Ko Myint Soe, a taxi-driver in Mawlamyine Township

I want to choose the candidates who can actually serve the interests of the public and are qualified. The new government needs to combine harness both experience people and fresh blood and understand the situation on the ground

I expect the new government will continue implementing the ongoing works of the previous government. The incumbent government’s projects and new projects are facing many challenges during the COVID-19 period. The government needs to implement many projects (for instance- tax revenue for Mon State) in the post-COVID-19 era, in cooperation with the public and entrepreneurs.

The incumbent government has been much better than the previous governments. Sometimes I have some dislikes of the government. The Union government and the State government laid down the policies. There are some things missing on the ground. The new government needs to make changes.

U Myint Oo, a fisherman from Thatone Township

The candidates should have a desire to conserve forest and fish resources and be the ones who are proficient in the systematic management of these natural resources. I want to choose the candidates who will really study and know the situation in Mon State. For instance, Mon State has forests and coasts. And also towns and wards.

The candidates need to implement the policies of the Union government and the State government in cooperation with the local CSOs. The government should be formed with the above-mentioned candidates. I want a government who can really work for the social and economic interests of the locals. I want a system which focuses on the people rather than a single-party system.

Some government officials are doing their work by oral orders. Sometimes these orders go against the law and have no evidence. So I don’t want the government which uses oral orders. Past governments have long been doing this. The government needs to issue orders and directives in accordance with the laws. The government officials should have accountability and responsibility.”