ASEAN Delegation Seeks Clarity on Myanmar's Controversial Election Plans

Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan will lead a four-nation ASEAN delegation to Myanmar to understand its election plans amidst ongoing political turmoil. Despite the junta's recent nominal power transfer to a civilian government, skepticism remains over the election's legitimacy as Western nations label it a farce.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 08-08-2025 14:29 IST | Created: 08-08-2025 14:29 IST
ASEAN Delegation Seeks Clarity on Myanmar's Controversial Election Plans
Mohamad Hasan

Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan will spearhead a diplomatic mission to Myanmar as part of a four-nation ASEAN delegation. Their goal is to gather insights on the country's forthcoming elections amid ongoing instability. Myanmar has been mired in chaos since a military coup ousted its civilian government in 2021.

Although the junta has temporarily lifted its nationwide state of emergency and handed over ceremonial power to a civilian leader, control remains firmly with the junta chief, who continues to act as president. Mohamad's mission aims to bring a clearer understanding of the electoral process to ASEAN in October, according to Malaysian state media, Bernama.

Accompanied by representatives from Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia on September 19, Mohamad seeks clarification on Myanmar's intentions for comprehensive elections as martial law grips multiple regions. Despite lifting the emergency, Myanmar's elections are widely criticized as a ruse to perpetuate military dominance, with significant barriers for opposition participation.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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