Myanmar's Military Government to Conduct Nationwide Census in October

Myanmar's military government has announced plans to conduct a nationwide population and household census in October. This census is seen as a crucial step towards holding a promised election next year, despite ongoing conflict in several parts of the country.

The census, scheduled to take place from October 1st to 15th, will collect data that will be used to compile accurate voter lists for the upcoming election. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing emphasized the importance of the census in ensuring a "free and fair multi-party democratic general election."

However, the announcement of the census comes amidst ongoing conflict in several regions of Myanmar. The military government's legitimacy is contested by many, and the upcoming election is viewed with skepticism by some who believe it will not be truly free and fair.

It remains to be seen whether the census will be conducted successfully and whether the resulting voter lists will be accurate and reliable. The success of the upcoming election will also depend on the ability to address the ongoing conflict and ensure a peaceful and inclusive electoral process.