Sai Oo — Ethnic Armed Organizations that signed the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement, do not hold the same views as their members in terms of voting in the 2020 Election.

Nai Aung Ma Ngay, a member of the Central Executive Committee of New Mon State Party (NMSP) said that since the NMSP has allowed its troops to vote, they can vote for the party of their choice in their respective constituencies.

“Our army members can register to vote if they have registration forms.  We are not restrictive,  they can vote freely in their area. They have the right to vote,” said Nai Aung Ma Ngay.

Nai Aung Ma Ngay added that the election is a national duty of everyone and they should vote for the party of their choice.

However, Restoration Council on Shan State (RCSS) spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Ohm Khay said that they do not allow their members to vote.

“The RCSS does not support any party and also does not allow their members to vote. Our members did not ask for the right to vote. Even if they asked for it, we do not allow it because this is the rule of our party.” he said.

Similarly, Karen National Union (KNU) General-Secretary Saw Ta Doh Moo, said that although the election was accepted as a way to democratize the country under the 2008 constitution, it was still difficult for him to participate.

“It will be difficult for us to participate because we have reformed the main anti-federal issue of the 2008 constitution.The peace process is based on the point of the constitution that is anti-democratic. Even if we have the right to vote, we do not vote right now.” Said Saw Ta Doh Moo.

Elections are clearly important to  establish democracy, but as evident amongst EAO’s,  the authority of the people’s elected representatives is subject to restrictions on voting authority.

“The day we can amend the constitution that accepts all, [so that we can] establish democracy and federalism, then we will be able to vote.” Said Saw Ta Doh Moo.