Mon communities have expressed little interest in the election announced by the military junta’s commission, scheduled to begin this December.
A Mon politician argued that holding a nationwide election, including in Mon State, is inappropriate under the current conditions of armed conflict and political instability, “they may announce a date, but at a time like this, when the country is unstable politically and militarily, nobody is excited about elections. Many say it shouldn’t be held at all. Even if they try to push it, people won’t participate much.”
According to the junta’s Union Election Commission (UEC) announcement on August 18, the first stage of the 2025 general election will take place on December 28th, with further phases to be announced later.
However, critics note that ongoing clashes between armed groups have not ceased, and no political negotiations or dialogue have taken place. They warn that pushing ahead with the vote under such conditions will only fuel more conflict.
“Before holding an election, there must first be a ceasefire. Then political dialogue and agreements accepted by all stakeholders must come. Only after that can an election be meaningful. If they hold it now, it could worsen the conflict,” said a Mon political analyst.
The junta announced that in Mon State, elections will be held in all townships. The Pyithu Hluttaw will use a first-past-the-post system, while the Amyotha Hluttaw and the State and Regional Hluttaws will adopt a mixed-member proportional system.
Despite these plans, the junta currently controls only Chaungzon, Paung, Mawlamyine, and Mudon townships in Mon State. Other areas, including Bilin, Kyaikto, Thaton, Kyaikmaraw, Thanbyuzayat, and Ye, remain outside of its full control.
