Threats and abductions reported as election approaches
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Phyo/Thet Paing (NP News)-Nov 10
As the election draws near, threats and violent incidents by armed groups have been increasing day by day, according to recent incidents.
An official from the District Election Commission told The Statesman on November 6 that a member of the Township Election Commission in Salin Township, Minbu District, Magway Region, was abducted by an unidentified armed group.
The official said that U Thet Wai Tun, a member of the Salin Township Sub-Commission of the Union Election Commission, was abducted on October 1 by an unknown terrorist group.
“He was taken on October 1 and has not been released yet. His family has been unable to contact him. We are still investigating which group was responsible. He serves as a member of the township sub-commission,” said the district election commission official.
The official added that security forces are conducting an ongoing investigation, but details cannot be disclosed for security reasons.
During the multi-party democratic general election, the Central Committee for Security Supervision has taken action against those attempting to disrupt or obstruct the electoral process. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, more than 90 individuals have been charged under the Law on the Protection of Multiparty Democratic General Elections from Obstruction, Disruption, and Destruction in the Union Territory and respective Regions and States.
Meanwhile, on November 6, the illegal National Unity Government (NUG) announced that it has opened channels to receive complaints and reports regarding threats or coercion aimed at forcing voter participation in the upcoming election held by the State Security and Peace Commission.
By analyzing that statement, such acts are not only attempts to disrupt or obstruct the electoral process, but also reflect efforts by certain groups to intimidate the public and undermine a peaceful and successful election, out of fear that the election may proceed smoothly and legitimately. –