Campaign period for general election begins on September 8
Category: Instability
Severity: 2 (Low)
Source: Drum Cussac
09/08/2020 (Myanmar) - The campaign period for Myanmar's general election commenced on Tuesday, September 8. The two-month campaign period ahead of the November 8 election is anticipated to see smaller-scale electoral-related events than previous elections due to gatherings being limited to 50 people due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) party is expected to remain in power following the election and Suu Kyi has urged supporters to vote to counter the still-powerful military.
A heightened security presence and localized transport disruptions are expected in the vicinity of electoral-related events.
Context
The NLD came into power in 2015 following decades of rule by a military junta. The constitution still largely favors the ministry, which controls three key ministry's and around 25 percent of parliamentary seats, effectively giving them a veto on legislation. Despite criticism from the international community over alleged persecutions of the Rohingya community and an inability to resolve other conflicts in areas such as Rakhine state, Suu Kyi remains popular domestically. While the overall outcome of the election appears to be in little doubt, the key issue may be as to whether the NLD can retain or increase their majority enough to be able to pass legislation without being prevented from doing so by the pro-military bloc.
Those in Myanmar are advised to monitor developments and remain apprised of the political situation, avoid all public demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, avoid discussing politically sensitive topics in public, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.
Copyright © 2024 Drum Cussac
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