Military council leader Min Aung Hlaing, during his visit to Belarus, announced that elections would only be held at the end of this year or in January 2026, coinciding with the completion of five years since the military coup. He made this announcement during a press conference after meeting with the President of Belarus on March 7.
Min Aung Hlaing stated that they are planning to hold elections at the earliest in December 2025 or January 2026. According to military sources in Naypyidaw, this timing aligns with his plan to complete a full five-year term as the head of the caretaker government. The sources indicate that Min Aung Hlaing has repeatedly mentioned in meetings his intention to hold elections within 2026, and has often stated that since he remains in good health, he could continue serving another term if the country needs him.
Military sources reveal that Min Aung Hlaing frequently discusses his plans for the 2026 elections during meetings, suggesting he intends to maintain a full five-year term as the caretaker government leader. He has repeatedly mentioned that his good health would allow him to serve additional terms if the country requires it. Sources also indicate that he likely plans to remain involved in political processes even after the elections.
During the press conference in Belarus, Min Aung Hlaing announced that 53 political parties have registered to participate in the military-planned elections. However, political analysts point out that since these elections would be held under military council control, they cannot be considered free and fair. The military council’s continued grip on power and its history of violence against civilians raise serious concerns about the legitimacy of any electoral process under their supervision.
