April 24, 2026 2:58 PM

Myanmar’s military-backed government imposes martial law in 60 townships

Myanmar's junta leader-turned-president Min Aung Hlaing has issued new emergency ordinances to impose military control in 60 townships, a move aimed at tightening security in regions still mired in conflict despite the transition to civilian rule. The ordinances cover 60 townships across Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Shan and Rakhine States as well as Saging, Magway and Mandalay regions - areas where the military had imposed restrictions and curfews following the 2021 coup. The official announce...

October 15, 2025 3:42 PM

Myanmar junta chief admits election won’t be nationwide, as war continues

Myanmar's junta chief acknowledged on Wednesday that the military-backed administration will be unable to conduct an upcoming general election across the entire country, as a civil war triggered by a 2021 coup rages on. Critics and many Western nations view the election - due to start in late December and the first since the coup - as a sham exercise to legitimise the military's rule via proxy political parties. Dozens of anti-junta parties are either banned or refusing to take part. The South...

July 31, 2025 1:32 PM

Myanmar forms commission led by junta chief to hold elections, state media says

Myanmar's ruling junta announced the formation of a 11-member commission led by military chief Min Aung Hlaing to hold an election in the war-torn country, state media reported on Thursday. The junta did not announce a date for the election and Min Aung Hlaing will continue to effectively remain in charge of the country, in his capacity as the interim president who will oversee the vote, MRTV reported. The proposed election, which Min Aung Hlaing on Wednesday confirmed would take place in Dece...