Despite widespread devastation from the recent earthquake, Myanmar’s Union Election Commission (UEC), operating under the military regime, has announced that general elections will take place in December.

In a statement issued on April 9, the UEC informed political parties that applications for new registration must be submitted by May 9. The deadline is intended to allow sufficient time for the formation of new political parties or the merger of existing ones ahead of the upcoming polls.

The announcement comes as the country continues to grapple with the aftermath of the powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck on March 28, causing extensive damage across several regions, including Mandalay, Sagaing, Nay Pyi Taw, Bago, Magway, and Shan State.

As of April 8, the earthquake has claimed more than 3,600 lives and left over 5,000 people injured, with hundreds still trapped beneath the rubble.

Critics have accused the military junta of prioritizing election preparations over urgently needed rescue, relief, and reconstruction efforts, amid what remains an escalating humanitarian crisis.