Leader of Japanese election observer mission, Mr Yohei Sasakawa, remarked that Myanmar’s 2020 General Election was free and fair, and its results would be recognized by all.

Mr Yohei Sasakawa, the Special Envoy of the Government of Japan for National Reconciliation in Myanmar, led an election observer mission for the 8 November general elections from 29 October to 9 November.

In his online press conference with local and foreign media groups, he said that the elections were organized peacefully in a free and fair manner.

The Japanese government supplied 113,000 bottles of indelible ink worth about US$1.7 million to Myanmar for the voters in the elections.

The head of the mission said that there was a widespread of criticism about the election ahead of it; they observed the polling stations in Yangon Region and found that voters were excited with the elections as they believed their votes could change the situations of their country.

In coordination with Japanese Ambassador to Myanmar, Mr Yohei Sasakawa and his mission visited 10 polling stations in Yangon Region, voting and counting the ballots.

He also recognized the management of Union Election Commission, and commented the high turnout of voters in the elections although there might be some reports on the delay of elections due to COVID-19 outbreak.

He added that the UEC could set up more polling stations for easy access of voters, and it has helped in the increasing number of voter turnouts.

He also praised the voters for their compliance with the rules and disciplines at the polling stations.

Before the 8 November elections, Mr Yohei Sasakawa held meetings with Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and UEC Chairman U Hla Thein in Nay Pyi Taw on 6 November.

He also said, quoting the UEC, that the by-elections are expected to be held in some areas of Rakhine and Shan states, where the elections could not be held on 8 November.

Ye Gaung Nyunt

(Translated by Aung Khin)

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