By Mg Dagon / MPA
China has pledged to support Myanmar’s military-led election, according to a junta report.
During a meeting in Nay Pyi Taw on Tuesday, Chinese Special Envoy Deng Xijun and junta leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing discussed Beijing’s cooperation in advancing the military’s five-point roadmap and preparations for the election, as reported by pro-junta media.
According to pro-junta media, the discussions focused on China’s cooperation in supporting the military junta’s five-point roadmap and preparations for the upcoming election.
Additionally, the junta claimed that talks also covered China’s involvement in peace efforts, drug eradication, combating online gambling and scams, and border trade.
A political analyst commented, “With China’s backing, the military junta will continue its relentless actions. I believe they will proceed with the election, but it won’t truly represent the people.”
Reports suggest that the majority of the public, including families of lower-ranking junta soldiers, oppose the military-run election.
A woman in her 40s from Yangon’s Shwe Pyi Thar Township stated, “We don’t accept it. Even if it happens, we won’t vote.”
She emphasized that the people of Myanmar had already chosen their government in the 2020 general election and voiced strong opposition to an election organized by a military that unlawfully seized power.
A family member of a junta soldier currently hiding in Mandalay remarked, “If the budget for the election were instead used to support families of fallen or injured soldiers, the junta might gain more backing. Right now, it feels like a futile effort.”
The Chinese Special Envoy arrived in Myanmar on Monday, a day after the junta chief returned from Russia and Belarus. That same day, the envoy also met with junta Foreign Minister U Than Swe, who had accompanied the military delegation on the European tour.
While discussions reportedly focused on strengthening Myanmar-China relations and ensuring peace and stability along border areas, the military’s Tuesday report did not mention the election.
According to the junta, the meeting also covered the latest developments in Myanmar’s peace process and national reconciliation efforts, with China pledging continued support.
Major General Zaw Min Tun told pro-junta media on Sunday that the military-run election is expected to take place between December 2025 and mid-January 2026, following the junta’s recent visits to Russia and Belarus.
