April 9, 2021
1 min read

Myanmar may extend state of emergency

Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi was taken into custody by the military in the February coup after her party won an election by a landslide…reports Asian Lite News

The Myanmar military’s spokesman Zaw Min Tun said the one-year state of emergency imposed by the junta during its February 1 coup could be extended, thereby pushing back potential elections.

He did not give a clear timeline for elections, but said the state of emergency could be extended for six months or more, in excerpts from an interview with CNN published late Thursday, reports dpa news agency.

He said a free and fair vote would have to be held within two years under the country’s constitution, but also told the broadcaster “the standard of democracy in Myanmar will not be the same as from Western counties”.

A Myanmar police officer

Zaw Min Tun also said there is “solid evidence” of the voter fraud which the army has used to justify seizing power, but did not present any proof to CNN.

Civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi was detained by the military in the February coup after her National League for Democracy (NLD) party won an election by a landslide.

Also read:Myanmar junta cuts Internet service

Local observers have said the vote was credible.

The military’s actions have prompted widespread protests, to which soldiers have responded with a violent crackdown on the population.

Death toll in Myanmar’s anti-coup protests tops 500

Nearly 2,850 have been arrested, and at least 598 have been killed, including 48 children, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), a non-profit organization.

Zaw Min Tun said the security forces were using “minimum force” against protesters.

“There will be deaths when they are cracking down (on) the riots, but we are not shooting around without discipline,” he said.

Also read:Moscow opposes sanctions on Myanmar

Previous Story

Biden to curb US gun violence epidemic

Next Story

INS Sarvekshak undertakes hydrographic surveys in Mauritius

Latest from -Top News

India fast-tracks FTAs as US drags feet

As India cements its position as a global trading force with a flurry of new free trade agreements, including a landmark pact with the United Kingdom, negotiations with the United States continue

Hamas Reiterates Peace Effort After U.S. Jab

Hamas Reaffirms Commitment to Ceasefire Talks After U.S. Criticism…reports Asian Lite News Hamas on Friday reiterated its commitment to the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, responding to remarks by U.S. Special Envoy to the
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Myanmar junta says rebels attacked Chinese military convoy

In response, Myanmar security forces retaliated against the attackers…reports Asian

Myanmar junta promises elections in 2023

In a related development also on Sunday, the country formed