Myanmar is Pressured by Japan to Reinstate Democracy
In the heart of Tokyo, Japan, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya recently issued a pressing call for the restoration of democracy in Myanmar. The urging came following the lifting of the state of emergency in Myanmar, which had been imposed after a military coup in 2021.
According to the Myanmar Constitution, a general election is to be held within six months after a state of emergency is lifted. However, Iwaya expressed concern about potential backlash from the people of Myanmar if general elections are held without political progress.
Iwaya's appeal was directed towards Myanmar's military, urging them to swiftly restore the country's democratic political system. He called for an immediate halt to violence in Myanmar and emphasized the need to release political detainees, including democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
The urging comes at a critical juncture in Myanmar's transition back to democracy. The military junta, led by Min Aung Hlaing, continues to consolidate power, with key political progress such as the anticipated 2025 general election largely viewed as a sham designed to legitimize military rule rather than restore genuine democracy.
The military’s obstruction of humanitarian aid further complicates efforts to stabilize the country and protect civilians. The release of political prisoners—a demand from pro-democracy groups—has been limited, with many detainees still held under harsh conditions despite prior promises of amnesty during earlier reform attempts in the 2010s.
Internationally, there is concern about the lack of genuine reforms and the normalization of military control. The US and other bodies have warned that without meaningful change, Myanmar faces prolonged authoritarian rule and ongoing conflict.
As Myanmar navigates these challenges, the appeal from Iwaya serves as a reminder of the international community's commitment to upholding democratic values and the rule of law. The path to a democratic Myanmar remains uncertain, but the call for political progress continues to echo, urging the military to take decisive action towards a peaceful and democratic future.
- The media has been actively reporting on the ongoing issues in Myanmar, highlighting the calls for the restoration of democracy, the need for an end to war-and-conflicts, and concerns about policy-and-legislation and politics that impede progress.
- In light of Iwaya's appeal, the international community is urging discussion and action in various policy-and-legislation forums, including general news, focusing on the importance of sustainable democratic practices and the rule of law in Myanmar's future, aiming to address ongoing war-and-conflicts and ensure the protection of human rights.
