Myanmar's First Parliamentary Session in Over Five Years: Military's Grip on Power and Political Tensions
Myanmar commenced its first parliamentary session in over five years on Monday, marking a significant political event following an election that excluded major opposition parties. The ruling military is poised to maintain a strong hold on power as it holds the majority of seats in the parliament. The military took control in February 2021, preventing the last legitimate government led by Aung San Suu Kyi from convening the parliament.
Delegates in traditional attire gathered in Naypyitaw for the opening session of the lower house, which has been newly renovated after sustaining damage from an earthquake last year. Security measures were tight, with roads leading to the parliament sealed off and vehicles undergoing thorough searches for explosives. The upper house is scheduled to convene later in the week, followed by regional parliaments.
The military and its allies dominate the parliament, with nearly 90% of the seats in their control. The military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party secured a significant number of seats, while other opposition parties faced restrictions or chose not to participate due to perceived unfair conditions. The recent elections organized by the military government have been criticized as an attempt to legitimize their rule.
The new Parliament's immediate tasks include electing speakers for each house, as well as a president and two vice presidents. Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the current head of the military government, is expected to assume the presidency. However, questions arise regarding his dual role as the army's commander-in-chief, as the constitution prohibits the president from holding this position simultaneously.
Aung San Suu Kyi, the former leader of Myanmar, is currently serving a prison sentence on what many consider to be politically motivated charges. Her party, the National League for Democracy, faced dissolution in 2023 after refusing to comply with new military regulations. An opposition shadow parliament, known as the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, held an online session on Monday, claiming to be the country's legitimate parliament.
In conclusion, Myanmar's parliamentary session marks a pivotal moment in the country's political landscape, with the military poised to maintain control despite criticism and opposition. The exclusion of major opposition parties from the recent elections has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the government's rule, setting the stage for continued political tensions in the region.