Myanmar’s junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, pledged on Thursday (March 27) to hold a free and fair election in December while calling on armed opposition groups in the country’s ongoing civil war to abandon violence and engage in dialogue. Speaking at the annual Armed Forces Day parade in Naypyitaw, he emphasized the military’s commitment to conducting a “dignified” election and assured that power would be transferred to the winning party. Addressing soldiers at the event, he urged support for a multi-party democratic vote, stating that preparations were underway to meet public expectations for a fair election.

Despite the nation being embroiled in conflict, facing an economic crisis, and witnessing widespread political restrictions, the junta remains resolute in pushing forward with the election. Critics argue that the move is a ploy to maintain military influence through proxy candidates. Since ousting Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected civilian government in 2021, the military has struggled to govern effectively, confronting a rebellion sparked by a youth-led movement that was violently suppressed.

Earlier this month, Min Aung Hlaing announced a tentative election timeframe, stating it would be held either in December this year or January 2026, marking the first time such a timeline was provided. The junta conducted a limited census last year, covering only 145 of Myanmar’s 330 townships, as part of its effort to compile a voter list. So far, 53 parties have registered to participate in the election.

However, opponents have vowed to disrupt the vote and have urged international communities not to recognize the results, arguing that it does not reflect the will of the people. Defending military operations, Min Aung Hlaing claimed they were engaged in a "just war" against groups aiming to destabilize the country and urged rebels to seek political solutions through dialogue instead of armed resistance.

Some analysts warn that the election could escalate violence further. Myanmar’s neighbors in the ASEAN bloc have advised the junta to prioritize peace before proceeding with the vote. The ongoing conflict has displaced over three million people, causing severe food insecurity, with more than a third of the population in need of humanitarian aid, according to the United Nations.