Imphal, August 1: Myanmar’s military government officially ended the state of emergency on July 31, 2025, signaling the beginning of preparations for national elections expected to be held in December. The state of emergency had been in place since February 2021, following a military coup that ousted the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

The announcement was made by junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun, who stated that the emergency was lifted to facilitate a transition toward “multi-party democracy.” He confirmed that elections will be held within six months, although no official date has yet been announced.

Despite the move, the political climate in Myanmar remains deeply fractured. The country has been locked in a protracted civil conflict since the coup, with ethnic armed groups and pro-democracy factions resisting military rule. Thousands have died in the violence, and widespread boycotts of the upcoming polls have already been declared by opposition forces, including ousted lawmakers.

Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, who assumed control over the executive, legislative, and judicial branches under the emergency order, described the upcoming election as the beginning of a “second chapter” in Myanmar’s political future. He is widely expected to retain influence, either as President or by continuing his command of the military.

The military has already begun political party registration and training for electronic voting machines. However, a new law criminalizing speech or protest that could be interpreted as undermining the electoral process has sparked concern. The law carries penalties of up to 10 years in prison, raising fears about the suppression of dissent ahead of the vote.

Compounding the concerns is a flawed census conducted last year, which failed to account for nearly 19 million of the nation’s estimated 51 million residents due to ongoing security challenges. Observers argue that the incomplete data undermines the credibility and inclusiveness of any forthcoming election.

International scrutiny has also intensified. A United Nations expert recently labeled the upcoming election a “fraud,” designed to legitimize continued military rule under the guise of democratic transition.

Meanwhile, the junta has introduced a new initiative offering financial incentives to members of armed resistance groups who agree to disarm and reintegrate into civilian life. Analysts caution that such moves may not be enough to de-escalate tensions, with many predicting an increase in resistance activities as the election nears.