India wants an “early resolution” of the “deteriorating situation in Myanmar” and said it is has been advocating for a complete succession of violence and the country’s transition towards inclusive federal democracy.
February 1, marks three years since the military in Myanmar declared a state of emergency and ousted Aung San Suu Kyu’s government on this day in 2021, triggering massive protests and crackdown on dissent.
“We are concerned about the deteriorating situation in Myanmar which has direct implications on us as a neighboring county and a friend of Myanmar. India has been advocating for a complete succession of violence and Myanmar’s transition towards inclusive federal democracy. We want an early resolution of the issue and return of peace and stability in the country,” Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday.
#WATCH | Delhi: On the anniversary of the Myanmar coup, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, “We are concerned about the deteriorating situation in Myanmar which has direct implications on us as a neighbouring county and a friend of Myanmar. India has been advocating for a… pic.twitter.com/geVIgNb8fk
— ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2024
“U Myint Swe, the acting president announced the extension of the state of emergency for another six months… as the situation is not normal and to be able to continue the process of combatting terrorists,” the junta said in a statement.
Myanmar’s military-drafted 2008 constitution, which the junta has said is still in force, requires authorities to hold fresh elections within six months of a state of emergency being lifted.
More than 4,400 people have been killed in the military’s crackdown on dissent, according to a local monitoring group.
In a surprising turn of events, Myanmar’s National Defense and Security Council recently announced a decision to extend the state of emergency in the country for an additional six months. This unexpected development has once again thrown a curveball at the eagerly anticipated elections that were promised by the ruling junta.
The extension of the state of emergency has sparked widespread speculation and concern among the general populace. Many had hoped that the upcoming elections would bring about a much-needed change and transition towards democracy in Myanmar. However, with this latest announcement, those hopes have been put on hold once again.
The decision to delay the elections has left the people of Myanmar feeling disheartened and frustrated. They had been longing for a chance to express their voices and participate in a fair and democratic electoral process. The postponement has further deepened the already existing sense of unease and uncertainty that has gripped the nation since the military coup.
The National Defense and Security Council’s justification for the extension of the state of emergency remains unclear. Some speculate that it is an attempt to consolidate power and maintain control over the country. Others believe that it is due to ongoing security concerns and the need for stability in the midst of political turmoil.
Regardless of the reasons behind this decision, the extension of the state of emergency raises numerous questions about the junta’s commitment to honoring their promises. It has also reignited concerns about the erosion of civil liberties and human rights in Myanmar. Many fear that the continued suppression of dissent and the delay of elections will only exacerbate the existing tensions within the country.
The international community has been closely monitoring the situation in Myanmar, and this latest development has drawn widespread criticism. Various nations and organizations have condemned the extension of the state of emergency, urging the junta to respect democratic principles and allow for a peaceful transition of power.
As Myanmar continues to grapple with political unrest and an uncertain future, the people’s resilience and determination remain strong. Despite the setback caused by the delay of elections, they continue to push for democracy and advocate for their rights. The extension of the state of emergency may have momentarily dampened their spirits, but it has also ignited a renewed sense of unity and defiance among the citizens of Myanmar.
In the face of adversity, the people of Myanmar have shown unwavering bravery and resilience. They refuse to be silenced and will continue to fight for the democracy they so desperately desire. As the country navigates through these challenging times, it is crucial for the international community to stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar and support their pursuit of a free and fair electoral process.
The state of emergency has been extended in Myanmar multiple times since, as it battles armed opposition to its coup across swathes of the country, delaying fresh elections it has promised to hold.
In conclusion, the announcement of the six-month extension of the state of emergency in Myanmar has once again delayed the promised elections and left the nation in a state of uncertainty. The decision has sparked widespread speculation, frustration, and concern among the people, who were eagerly awaiting the opportunity to participate in a democratic electoral process. Despite this setback, the citizens of Myanmar remain resilient and determined in their fight for democracy. It is now more important than ever for the international community to rally behind them and support their aspirations for a better future.
