Myanmar Ends State of Emergency, Plans December 2025 Election

Myanmar’s military government has officially ended the state of emergency that began in February 2021. This announcement comes before the general election set for December 2025.

The state of emergency was first declared after the military removed the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. This action sparked a violent civil conflict that is still happening. Thousands of people have died, and fighting continues in many areas of the country.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who led the coup and took control of the country, chaired the National Defence and Security Council meeting that decided to lift the emergency. According to Myanmar’s 2008 constitution, an election must be held within six months after the state of emergency ends.

Junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun said, “The state of emergency is abolished today in order for the country to hold elections on the path to a multi-party democracy.”

However, many opposition groups, including ousted lawmakers and pro-democracy activists, have said they will not participate in the election. International observers have also raised concerns, calling the election a way for the military to remain in power under the appearance of democracy.

Though a specific date for the election has not been given, preparations are already underway. Political parties are being registered, and training for electronic voting machines has begun.

A new law passed by the military imposes prison sentences of up to 10 years for those who speak or protest in ways that could “destroy a part of the electoral process.” Critics say this law could be used to silence dissent.

A census carried out last year revealed that data was not collected from 19 million out of the 51 million people in the country due to security problems, casting doubt on how inclusive the upcoming election can be.

The military has also offered cash rewards to rebels who agree to disarm and return to civilian life ahead of the vote. Analysts believe opposition attacks may increase as the election nears.

For now, the military’s State Administration Council will continue to govern the country. General Min Aung Hlaing is expected to keep a key leadership role even after the election.