Military Conducts Clearance Operations in Nine Ayeyarwady Townships Ahead of Phase Three Election

The Myanmar military junta is increasing security and conducting military operations in parts of Ayeyarwady Region ahead of Phase 3 of its planned election on January 25, particularly near conflict-prone areas close to the Rakhine Yoma. Junta-appointed Chief Minister Tin Maung Win is campaigning only in relatively secure townships, avoiding active conflict zones. In earlier election phases, local administrators reportedly pressured voters, leading to strong results for the USDP. The NUG, resistance groups, the UN, and the international community have rejected the election as illegitimate, and ASEAN Chair Malaysia has stated it will not rush to recognize any outcome.