The military-appointed Minister of Home Affairs, Tun Tun Naung, has issued threats to take action against those who use online media to incite activities that could affect the security of the military’s sham election. These statements were made during the Election Security Committee Meeting 2/2025 held in Naypyidaw. The military council has announced that they will conduct the election in phases starting from December 28.
The military council has been actively pursuing those who write and distribute content on online media platforms that could disrupt the election. As of September 2, they have already filed three cases under the Law on Protection Against Interference, Deterrence, and Destruction of Multi-party Democracy General Election. Additionally, Tun Tun Naung has instructed the implementation of strict security measures to prevent any security breaches during the election period.
In a recent case, Ko Nay Thway from Taunggyi was arrested and charged under Section 23(a) of the election protection law for criticizing security conditions on social media following a car robbery incident in Lashio. The military council enacted a new law on July 29 to protect their election, which allows for penalties ranging from a minimum of 3 years imprisonment to death sentences for those found guilty of disrupting the election.
The military council’s new law prohibits various forms of election-related activities including speeches, organizing, incitement, protests, and distribution of written materials that could disrupt the election. It also bans threats, obstruction, undue influence, causing harm, and group protests. The law threatens severe punishments based on the nature of the offense. Through these legal provisions, the military council is clearly attempting to suppress voices opposing their sham election, demonstrating their continued efforts to maintain control through legislative means while disregarding the will of the people.
