Myanmar’s military coup leaders have made a surprise move by calling for their opponents to lay down their weapons and engage in political dialogue. The State Administration Council (SAC) urged ethnic armed groups and People’s Defence Forces (PDF) to give up the “terrorist way” and start political discussions. However, this offer was swiftly rejected by the National Unity Government (NUG), which includes elected lawmakers removed in the coup.
The military, which seized power in February 2021, is facing immense pressure from armed groups that have been fighting against military rule since October last year. The SAC has promised to hold new elections, with a census starting on October 1 to ensure the accuracy of voter lists. However, civil society groups have warned that these elections would be a sham and not a solution to the crisis caused by the coup.
Since the coup, the military has been accused of killing thousands of people and detaining tens of thousands more. The international community has condemned the violence and called for a return to democratic rule. Critics see the military’s offer for dialogue and elections as a desperate attempt for false legitimacy.
Myanmar has a history of military rule and promises of elections that ultimately lead to continued repression. The current regime’s actions are seen as a familiar pattern that has been used in the past to maintain power. Despite the military’s attempts to appear open to dialogue, many see it as a tactic to cling to power rather than a genuine effort for democratic transition.
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