Meeting with Political Parties: Commitment for free & fair elections amid challenges

Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing held a meeting with officials from 39 registered political parties in Nay Pyi Taw on Saturday.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister reiterated the government's ultimate goal of handing over state duties to the winning party after conducting a free and fair election. However, challenges have arisen due to attempts to address political problems through terrorist acts, leading to armed conflicts in the country.

The Prime Minister expressed concern about the involvement of Ethnic Armed Organizations in terrorist activities, necessitating joint efforts by the Tatmadaw, Myanmar Police Force, and the strength of the people to eradicate terrorist attacks. Emphasizing the importance of accuracy and fairness in the general election, he highlighted the last point of State Administration Council's 5-point Road Map, “Work will be undertaken to ensure accuracy and fairness in the general election to prevent eligible voters from losing their rights, and upon accomplishing the provisions of the state of emergency, free and fair multi-party democratic elections will be held, and State duties will be handed over to the elected government”.

He continued that efforts are underway to engage in discussions with political and national races organizations to implement the Proportional Representation (PR) system. Additionally, plans for amending the Constitution will be pursued through the Hluttaw session.

Despite hindrances caused by armed conflicts, the Prime Minister pledged to strive for peace and stability, calling for cooperation from political parties for the benefit of the country. During the meeting, Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and officials from the political parties reported on work implementations aligned with the State Administration Council's guidance and regulations.

Topics included involvement of political parties in MSME development, public security system, fostering nationalistic fervor, easing stipulations for political parties, democracy system flourishing, and assistance for agricultural and livestock industries.

The Union Election Commission Chairman U Thein Soe, Union Minister for Legal Affairs Dr Thida Oo, and Legal Advisory Board member U Sitt Aye provided explanations on granting permission to political parties, annulling non-compliant parties, and meeting stipulations set by the Union Election Commission. The Prime Minister emphasized fulfilling the needs of political parties with consideration for long-term impact and urged unity for the nation's interest.