KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will not endorse the recent elections held in military-ruled Myanmar, as confirmed by Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan on Tuesday. This decision stems from concerns regarding the absence of inclusive and free participation in the electoral process.
Election Context
Myanmar's military-backed political party appeared set to secure a parliamentary majority following a second round of voting earlier this month. This marks the first general election since the military seized power in February 2021, ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government. The takeover has since led to widespread opposition and an ongoing civil conflict.
International and Regional Stance
Human rights and opposition groups have asserted that the polls were neither free nor fair, describing them as an attempt by the military to legitimize its authority. Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan informed Parliament that ASEAN leaders, during their October summit, opted against sending observers to Myanmar, citing unmet conditions for a credible election. He emphasized that by not sending observers, ASEAN does not certify the election results. While ASEAN as a bloc did not send observers, Myanmar's Information Ministry reported that some individual ASEAN members, including Cambodia and Vietnam, did so.
ASEAN has consistently urged Myanmar's military government to implement a previously agreed-upon peace plan. This plan includes calls for an end to violence, facilitated humanitarian access, and inclusive dialogue among all parties. The bloc has also suspended Myanmar's military leaders from attending its summits. However, efforts within ASEAN have been affected by internal divisions, with some members advocating for engagement while others push for stronger pressure on Myanmar's military leadership.
Final results for all national and regional legislative seats in Myanmar are anticipated to be announced this month.