Myanmar’s Acting President and Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, said that voting in an election represents support for the country’s democratic path, while not voting signifies a lack of such support. He made the remarks during a meeting with local officials, community leaders, and MSME business owners in Minbu on December 20, where regional development was discussed.

He announced that the election will be held on December 28 in three phases and stressed the importance of ensuring that all eligible voters can cast their ballots in a free and fair multiparty democratic election, while preventing irregularities seen in the 2020 polls. He said voting is the choice of individuals, but facilitating voting is the government’s responsibility, and urged cooperation to ensure a successful election in the Minbu area.

The Acting President also highlighted priorities for local development, including agriculture-based industries, human resource development, and environmental conservation. After the meeting, he toured MSME product displays, inspected ongoing infrastructure upgrades, and visited Minbu General Hospital.