Acting President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and State Security and Peace Commission Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing voted at the polling station No 1 in Anawrahta Ward of Zeyathiri Township in Nay Pyi Taw Council Area yesterday. After casting the votes, the Senior General responded to queries raised by domestic and international media. The full text of the interview was reported as follows:–
Q: As one of those who planned and led the conduct of the election, to what extent can you guarantee that the election is free and fair? What message would you like to convey to the people?
A: You can see that this is a free and fair election by observing today’s voting. Moreover, there were preparatory stages ahead of the vote as the pre-election period. During that time, one could observe the activities of political parties, administrative bodies, and the election commissions. Even today, after voting concludes, the results will come out in the evening, won’t they? At that point, it will be clear. We have given assurances that this election will be free and fair. Tatmadaw will not allow its name to be tarnished. In the 2020 election, the reputation was severely damaged. It was extremely serious and became an embarrassment internationally. Some people were unaware and went along with it. In reality, I personally conducted the checks, and I know that it was truly very serious. It was so unacceptable that the situation reached this point. Therefore, I would like to say: look at the results when everything is finished. This time there will be one round today, another on 11 January, and another on 25 January—three rounds in total. Observe them, and only after that, make your assessment.
Q: We would also like to know the Senior General’s political aspirations. How are you thinking about the post-election situation? Do you plan to serve as President?
A: I am the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services and a public service personnel. I can’t simply say that I want to do this or that. I am not a leader of a political party.
Moreover, when the Hluttaw is convened, there are procedures within the Hluttaw regarding the selection of the President. They will carry out that process at that time. I believe it would be appropriate for us to speak about it then.
Q: What would you like to say to the people who are undecided about whether they should vote or not?”
A: They should vote, of course. If one says they accept the multiparty democratic system, then the essence of democracy – the election – is truly something that should be carried out. Voting is something that should be done. You may like a candidate or you may not. If you do not like someone, do not vote for them; vote for the person you like. That is where choice exists. In some parties or in some areas, there may be little or no choice; in other areas, there may be many choices. Vote for the person you prefer — that is enough. This is something that should be done. However, if someone chooses not to vote, I believe it can be said that they do not fully understand the democratic system.
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