1-8-2023 (YANGON) Myanmar’s National Defense and Security Council (NDSC) has announced the decision to extend the state of emergency in the country for an additional six months. The extension, starting from August 1, was made in accordance with Section 425 of the State Constitution, as stated in the council’s statement signed by Acting President U Myint Swe.
The decision came after a meeting held in the capital city of Nay Pyi Taw, where all NDSC members participated in discussions and deliberations. They concluded that the extension is necessary to ensure security and conduct a free and fair election. The statement cited concerns over security threats faced by political parties preparing for the election as a key reason for the extension.
During the meeting, various matters were discussed, including the conditions for election preparation, disturbances affecting the preparation process, relief and resettlement efforts following cyclone Mocha, and security arrangements for holding the election.
Acting President U Myint Swe officially declared the extension of the state of emergency during the meeting and handed over the state power to Chairman of the State Administration Council Min Aung Hlaing, who also serves as the Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services.
This marks the fourth extension of the state of emergency, which was initially declared in February 2021 for a one-year period. Subsequently, three six-month extensions were made, with the latest extension taking the state of emergency until July 31 this year.
