Padoh Saw Taw Nee, a central executive committee member of the Karen National Union (KNU), has stated that any elections conducted by the military in Myanmar can no longer be trusted, and the KNU will continue to carry out necessary actions. He explained that the military has seized power multiple times under various pretexts, none of which had any logical justification. Even after the National League for Democracy won the 1990 election, the military claimed they would respect the results but proceeded to do whatever they wanted. He emphasized that every military coup has resulted in the destruction of the country, and therefore any elections organized by the military cannot be considered credible.
In a statement released on the 34th anniversary of the Karen National Police Force, the KNU Central Committee announced that the Karen National Police Force must work together to prevent the terrorist military council’s election from taking place. The military council transformed into an election commission on July 31 and is attempting to gain legitimacy through elections. However, the statement emphasized that these elections would not only fail to solve the country’s problems but would also intensify internal conflicts and create more fear and anxiety among the people. The KNU has made it clear that the Karen National Police Force and all its leadership must work together to oppose the military commission’s election efforts.
The Karen National Police Force has been tasked with supporting the implementation of the parent organization’s objectives alongside the people. According to KNU policies and the political aspirations of all Karen people, they are responsible for protecting civilians, taking action against activities that compromise security, and reducing public concerns. The statement also emphasized the crucial importance of public participation and support in security sector responsibilities alongside the Karen National Police Force to protect people’s lives, property, and enforce the rule of law. The KNU has stressed that this cooperation between the public and the Karen National Police Force is essential for maintaining security and stability in the region while preventing the military council from achieving its political objectives through illegitimate elections.
