The military council has arrested nine civilians, including three minors, for allegedly opposing their planned election. The detainees, ranging in age from 14 to 45 years old, have all been charged under election interference laws. The arrests highlight the ongoing crackdown on dissent against the military-planned election.
On September 14, five youths under 18 were arrested in Loikaw, Karenni State, while four adults were detained in Shwepyithar Township, Yangon Region, on September 16. All arrestees have been charged under Section 23(a) of the military council’s election protection law. The military council has enacted new laws claiming to protect their planned 2025 election, establishing penalties ranging from a minimum of three years imprisonment to death sentences for those who oppose the election.
Under these laws, any criticism, protest, or incitement regarding the election is prohibited and subject to severe punishment. The legislation specifically targets activities such as public speaking, organizing, protesting, or distributing materials that could be deemed as interfering with the election process. The military council’s approach demonstrates their intent to suppress any opposition to their electoral plans through legal mechanisms and enforcement actions.
