ASEAN stakeholders have strongly rejected Myanmar’s planned military-run elections, labeling them illegitimate and a clear violation of the bloc’s Five-Point Consensus. The rejection follows a series of meetings led by Malaysia in its capacity as ASEAN Chair.
Spearheaded by Special Envoy Tan Sri Othman Hashim, the discussions brought together representatives from the National Unity Government (NUG), Ethnic Resistance Organisations (EROs), civil society, and political bodies across the region.
In a joint statement, participants condemned the Myanmar junta’s ongoing violence against civilians and its disregard for democratic principles. They emphasized that any election conducted under military rule — amid civil conflict, repression, and the exclusion of legitimate voices — cannot be free or fair, and risks deepening instability within Myanmar and the broader Southeast Asian region.
The coalition urged ASEAN to take swift and decisive action: to end violence, safeguard civilians, deliver humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected areas, and secure the immediate release of political prisoners. They also called for stronger regional accountability mechanisms to address the junta’s continued non-compliance with ASEAN’s peace roadmap.
The meetings concluded with appreciation for Malaysia’s proactive leadership and a renewed call for ASEAN unity in supporting the people of Myanmar. Stakeholders reaffirmed that peace, democracy, and justice can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue — not through an election orchestrated by military force.
At its core, this statement reflects a growing sense of humanity across ASEAN — one that refuses to remain silent in the face of oppression. The message is clear: the will of the people must triumph over the rule of guns.
