Junta may exploit elected government label to target revolutionary forces

By Admin 08 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

8 April 2026, Mrauk-U

Political monitoring organizations analyze that although the junta-sponsored election is not supported by the people, the regime may use the label of an "elected government" to further suppress revolutionary forces.

This assessment was made during the online launch of BNI’s report titled "Voters Without Choice: Analyzing Electoral Events in Myanmar’s Ethnic Areas" on April 6 by BNI Myanmar Peace Monitor.

It was pointed out that since the junta-organized election is merely a way to extend the dictatorship under the guise of a government, it could have significant impacts on revolutionary forces.

Ma Ah Me, Chairperson of BNI’s Media Development Committee, said, “Everyone already knows that the regime will try to pretend to be a civilian government to gain international recognition. The regime can use this title of an elected government to designate revolutionary forces as terrorists and pave the way for legal frameworks or enact laws to target them.”

Furthermore, top positions in the current government administration are held by junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing as President, former Brig-Gen Khin Yi as Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw (Lower House), former General U Aung Lin Dwe as Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw (Upper House), and former General U Nyo Saw as Vice-President.

Additionally, critics pointed out that since the election is merely a transfer of new titles to those who already held power, dissatisfaction and grievances will persist. Battles are expected to continue due to territorial control efforts, which may lead to the further strengthening of liberated areas.

U Sein Win, Managing Director of Mizzima Media Group, said, “Since it is just giving new clothes to the same old people, dissatisfaction and unresolved issues will continue to arise. The war will keep going. Although they held the election for a reason, the regime knows that territorial control is crucial. On the other hand, revolutionary organizations see that territorial control will be the deciding factor. Knowing that there is no political solution through the election route, wars for territorial control will break out.”

He analyzed that the regime might potentially regain control of places like Mandalay and Madaya in central Myanmar, as well as Htigyaing and Kawlin in Sagaing Region, though there may be challenges in the battles for Bhamo in Kachin State.

However, U Sein Win also noted that it is uncertain whether the regime can regain all the areas it has lost. He further pointed out that Myanmar will face various crises, and the high price of fuel could severely impact the country's agricultural sector.

Therefore, political observers emphasize that because the election is not a practical solution, it is vital to find genuine ways to resolve the crisis.