Myanmar Citizens Cast Early Votes in Bangkok Amid Controversial Elections

On Saturday, a small group of early voters from Myanmar participated in the country’s contentious elections by casting their ballots at the Myanmar embassy in Bangkok. This initiative marks the beginning of a phased voting process for citizens living abroad, despite widespread criticism of the elections following the junta’s takeover in 2021.

The military regime, which assumed control in a coup that triggered a complex civil war, claims that these elections will lead to peace and a restoration of democratic governance. Polling in specific regions of Myanmar is scheduled to commence in late December, while early voting has already begun at several embassies, including those in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Chiang Mai.

Early Voting in Bangkok

At the Myanmar embassy in Bangkok, journalists from AFP observed a significant police presence on Saturday morning. In the initial two hours of polling, approximately 25 individuals registered to vote. Many voters chose not to comment on their participation.

According to Thailand’s labour ministry, there are around 500,000 documented Myanmar nationals living in Bangkok. The International Organization for Migration estimates that the total number of Myanmar nationals residing in Thailand is about 4.1 million, many of whom are undocumented and have fled the ongoing conflict in their homeland.

Concerns Over Election Legitimacy

Officials at the embassy indicated that they were unsure how many individuals had completed the necessary voting registration form, which had a deadline of October 15, 2023. The election has faced backlash from deposed lawmakers, human rights advocates, and rebel factions, all of whom have condemned the process as a façade aimed at legitimizing ongoing military rule.

In preparation for the elections, the junta implemented extensive new legislation that includes severe penalties for those who protest or criticize the election process, with potential prison sentences of up to ten years.

The situation in Myanmar remains precarious as citizens navigate the complexities of voting while grappling with the realities of military governance. With the elections set against a backdrop of unrest and skepticism, the international community continues to monitor the developments closely.