On the first day of campaigning for the junta-organized election, political parties held small campaign events in monasteries and party offices across Mawlamyine, according to residents.
The junta’s Union Election Commission (UEC) has set October 28 to December 26 as the official 60-day campaign period for participating political parties.
Although security was tightened in the city ahead of the campaign launch, residents said only limited gatherings took place on October 28, mostly inside monasteries or party offices.
“In town, only small groups gathered. Most of the Mon-related parties held talks in monasteries, while others used their party offices. The PPP party held theirs at their own office,” said a resident of Mawlamyine.
Locals noted that the UEC has restricted outdoor rallies and campaign marches, forcing parties to hold low-profile events indoors. Many candidates are also hesitant to campaign openly due to security concerns.
While large-scale public campaigning has not yet begun, some parties have started introducing their candidates and sharing campaign messages on social media.
In Chaungzon Township, considered a stronghold of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), residents said there had been no visible campaign activity on the first day.
“Nothing special is happening in Chaungzon. No speeches, no events, and people don’t seem interested at all,” said a local resident.
According to the UEC, nine political parties and more than 250 candidates are participating in the junta-led election across Mon State. The USDP is reportedly contesting in all 45 constituencies within the state.
Meanwhile, images circulating on social media showed around 150 USDP members holding a campaign rally in front of the party’s office along the Asia Highway in Myawaddy, Karen State, on October 28.
