The Union Election Commission (UEC) held a meeting yesterday at the UEC office conference hall with registered political parties.

At the event, UEC Chairman U Than Soe explained that among the political parties that applied in accordance with the registration law and regulations, 61 parties had been granted registration. Of these, nine parties are nationwide, and 52 operate only within a specific region or state. All parties that applied in accordance with the law have been thoroughly verified and approved.

The chairman reminded political parties that when submitting candidate lists for the legislature, they must comply with the legally stipulated number of constituencies and qualifications. Candidates must have completed at least basic education high school, and for upcoming elections, candidates should hold degrees from recognized universities or colleges. Political parties are encouraged to select and submit candidates who will serve the public interest and contribute to the nation.

It was also noted that citizens residing abroad or temporarily displaced must vote using Form 15. Those voting at their current residence must have lived there for at least 180 days to be eligible, with certification provided.

Regarding the election system, the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) system will be applied for the Pyithu Hluttaw, while the Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) system will be used for the Amyotha Hluttaw and regional or state Hluttaws. Electronic voting machines will allow citizens to vote not only for candidates but also for parties. Political parties are required to submit priority candidate lists for proportional representation (PR) constituencies. Candidate mobilization efforts for both FPTP and PR seats can be conducted in parallel.

To ensure successful elections, laws have been enacted to prevent interference or obstruction in democratic general elections, and security measures are in place for political parties and voters. UEC stressed its commitment to conducting free, fair, and lawful elections and encouraged political parties to collaborate to ensure smooth and successful electoral processes.

Following the opening remarks, representatives from the attending political parties discussed election-related matters and party-specific issues. UEC members, officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, General Administration Department, and the Department of Population and the Ministry of Labour also provided clarifications and guidance. Finally, UEC Chairman U Than Soe gave closing remarks, supplementing any necessary points, and concluded the meeting.

The event was attended by UEC officials and representatives, including chairpersons and leaders, from all 61 registered political parties.

MNA/KZL

#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar