The popularity of State Counsellor Daw Aung San Kyi was certainly a factor in the NLD’s resounding election success, but so too was fighting corruption, progress in economic development and an ill-advised intervention by the Tatmadaw chief.
The Union Election Commission’s disturbing behaviour towards journalists stirs memories of military rule, when it was dangerous to question those in authority.
The large turnout on November 8 powerfully demonstrated society’s commitment to democracy, but this should not overshadow deep flaws in the electoral process that threaten to undermine future progress.
BY Frontier
The support of a relatively homogenous ethnic group, community-wide mobilisation and clear messaging were among the reasons for the MUP’s impressive election debut.
