The Junta’s Sham Election: A Political Escape Plan, Not a Democratic Process

November 6, 2025

The military junta’s planned election is not a genuine democratic process but a calculated move to escape the political and military deadlock it now faces. On the ground, it is clear that the regime’s motivation has little to do with representing the people or improving the country. Instead, it is designed to prolong the junta’s grip on power, a desperate attempt to gain political breathing space after losing control across much of the country.

A Struggle for Survival Disguised as Reform

The junta is struggling militarily and politically. If it fails to stage this so-called election, it risks losing what little legitimacy it still claims. That is why it is pushing forward at all costs, presenting this election as a “way forward” while silencing real political voices and using local administrators to mobilize support for the military-backed party. For the people of Burma, this is not an opportunity to choose, it is an attempt by the military to revive itself through deception.

The Return of Old Tactics

Like in past eras of dictatorship, the junta is again using propaganda, fear, and showy public events to make it look as if the country is normal. It organizes religious ceremonies, sports events, and state-funded distributions just before the campaign period, then uses these as proof that it is “serving the people.” At the same time, it keeps tightening control, blocking criticism of the election, and jailing young people for speaking out.

But this time, people are more aware. After years of resistance since the coup, communities can clearly see the difference between real support and staged performances meant to win votes.

The True Political Path Forward

History shows that governments which ignore the people’s will cannot stand forever. The junta’s election is another illusion, a trick to keep power. Burma’s people are not asking for a military-designed election; they are asking for a federal democratic union where all ethnic people have equal rights, protection, and a voice in how the country is run.

A real political solution will not come from the junta’s ballot boxes. It will come from the people’s struggle for justice, accountability, and federal democracy.

HURFOM stands with communities who reject this election and calls for unity in resisting all attempts by the junta to legitimize its rule.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under Commentary