International election observers deliver remarks on Phase III of general election

A ceremony to present remarks by international election observers who monitored Phase III of the multiparty democratic general election, which was successfully held on 25 January 2026, in 61 townships, took place at the Parkroyal Hotel in Yangon yesterday morning.
The event featured video messages from representatives of observation teams from the Republic of Belarus and remarks of the teams from Cambodia, Nepal, Nicaragua, and the Cambodian People’s Party as follows: –

Ms Volha N Chamadanova, Chairperson of the Belarusian Party Belaya Rus of the Republic of Belarus
A five-member delegation from Belarus arrived in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to observe Phase III of the election. We would like to praise the fact that the preparations made in advance for Phase III of the election, as well as the arrangements for election day, were extremely systematic and ensured security. We would also like to express our gratitude to the Head of State and to the Union Election Commission of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar for the warm hospitality and well-organized arrangements provided to our delegation during Phase III of the election.
We have also noticed that Phase III of the election process was organized in accordance with democratic standards. All procedures were transparent, and it was evident that election-related information had already been disseminated to the public, resulting in active public participation. We observed that every stage of polling station preparations complied with the legal standards of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. We would like to extend our sincere thanks for the distinguished invitation extended to our Belarusian delegation.

Mr Sergei A Shkrudnev, Chairman of Minsk City Trade Union, Republic of Belarus
As a member of the election observation delegation from the Republic of Belarus, I have observed that the elections of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar are being conducted peacefully. Today, citizens are coming to the polling stations enthusiastically together with their children, and it can be seen that they are ready to actively participate not only for their country but also for the future of their entire homeland. It is seen that there is transparency is important at the polling stations. I have also noted that, in addition to political parties monitoring today’s election results, the people are present as well. Everything is being carried out transparently and in accordance with the law.
Based on discussions with party representatives who are serving as observers today, we know that the current situation and the voting process are being conducted systematically and without any violations of the law.
Moreover, the Myanmar Electronic Voting Machine system currently used has proven to be highly effective in preventing electoral fraud and in ensuring that elections are held fairly. I believe that the people and citizens of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar are aware of this fact and will understand that no one will be able to interfere with their will in the coming elections.
Besides, I would like to express my gratitude to the Union Election Commission for granting access to visit the polling stations and for providing all necessary information. In particular, I would like to convey my best wishes to all Myanmar citizens for good health and well-being, and I wish that the country will prosper and develop even further, continue to move forward, and achieve greater progress and development.

Mr Yich Samethy, Member of the Cambodian Election Commission
Mingalabar to all distinguished Chairman and members of the Union Election Commission who are attending today’s ceremony, honoured guests from various countries, officials from embassies, and all distinguished guests. On behalf of the Kingdom of Cambodia, we have come to observe the elections in Myanmar, and this marks our second visit for election observation purposes.
At the invitation of the Union Election Commission, we also observed the first round of voting held on 28 December 2025. At that time, we visited six polling stations in Nay Pyi Taw and observed that the election was conducted properly and correctly in accordance with the relevant laws, rules, and procedures. With regard to Phase II of the elections held on 11 January 2026, although we were unable to come in person as representatives of Cambodia, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to Myanmar carried out the observation. Even though we could not personally conduct the observation at that time, it was learned that no irregular or unlawful election-related practices were found. For the Phase III of the elections currently being held, we observed voting at six polling stations in Yangon. During our observation, we noted the following points.
First, the voting process was peaceful. The elections were conducted peacefully, and the public participated actively and enthusiastically. Voters were able to exercise their voting rights freely, without any interference, fear, or intimidation.
Second, we observed the performance of polling station staff. The staff carried out voting and vote-counting procedures in accordance with the prescribed election laws, rules, and procedures, ensuring the integrity of the entire electoral process.
Third, there is transparency. The entire election process was transparent, comprehensive, and clearly implemented. Particularly, during the voting and vote-counting processes, all relevant stakeholders — especially political parties, international election observers, and the media — were able to participate and cooperate, which clearly demonstrated a high level of transparency.
Fourth, regarding the use of Myanmar’s electronic voting machines, we observed that they were highly effective, made the voting and counting processes faster than before, and produced accurate and reliable results. Although this was the first time that many Myanmar voters used these machines, we found that they were already well informed about how to use them properly.
Another point was security. We observed that comprehensive and effective security measures were in place throughout the election process. As a result, voters, polling station staff, and all other relevant stakeholders were able to carry out their responsibilities safely with confidence.
Finally, throughout the entire election observation mission, we did not see any form of electoral fraud or irregularities. During our observation of the 2025 elections in Myanmar, we found that the elections were conducted in accordance with the law. In this Phase III, just as in Phases I and II, we observed that the elections were free, fair, and transparent.
We would like to express our gratitude to the Union Election Commission for inviting us to observe the elections in Myanmar. In addition, we wish all representatives from each country attending this programme a safe and pleasant journey back to their respective countries. With these words, I would like to conclude. Thank You.
 

Dr Janaki Kumari Tuladhar, Member of the Nepali Election Commission
Mingalabar to the distinguished Chairman and members of the Union Election Commission, responsible officials of the Union Election Commission, officials from international embassies, and all honoured guests attending today.
On our part, in accordance with the guidance of the Election Commission, we were honoured to participate as international election observers in the 2025 multiparty democratic general elections of Myanmar. Moreover, we are deeply honoured to have this opportunity to deliver remarks today on behalf of the Election Commission of Nepal.
First of all, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Union Election Commission for inviting us to observe the elections. Inviting international election observers is an important demonstration of the commitment to cooperation among election management bodies, to strengthening trust in institutions, and to ensuring transparency in the electoral process. For this opportunity, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks.
In addition to inviting us, we are also especially grateful for the warm hospitality extended to us throughout our stay in

Myanmar, as well as for the comprehensive arrangements made to support our observation mission.
We would also like to express our special appreciation for the arrangements and assistance provided regarding our accommodation, transportation, security, access to comprehensive election-related information, and all other forms of support necessary for us to carry out our election observation effectively.
Furthermore, I would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the Ambassador of Nepal to Myanmar for the support and assistance extended to our delegation. The Ambassador worked closely with us to facilitate our mission and to further strengthen the friendly relations between Nepal and Myanmar.
Throughout the period of our election observation, we observed that the Union Election Commission had undertaken well-prepared arrangements for the elections. Clear and systematic operational guidelines were implemented, particularly in ensuring voter inclusion in voter lists, facilitating advance voting, and coordinating with other relevant organizations to ensure the smooth functioning of these processes.
When we visited the designated polling stations, we observed that polling station staff carried out their duties honestly, competently, and professionally. They demonstrated a clear understanding of their responsibilities and performed their tasks with full commitment and diligence.
We also observed that polling stations were under a well-managed system, and that voters did not experience confusion or uncertainty regarding the voting procedures. We further noted that Myanmar’s electronic voting machines were designed and developed by local engineers in Myanmar, and that these machines operated without any external interference during the voting process.
The voting process was conducted in a well-organized and systematic environment, ensuring that voters were able to exercise their voting rights without obstruction. In addition, we observed that special arrangements were made to ensure accessibility and convenience for voters with disabilities when using the electronic voting machines.
From the perspective of international election observers, we recognize that conducting elections in any country, especially one with diverse geography, a large population, and varying administrative conditions, can present challenges and shortcomings. In such situations, it is essential to assist to ensure that voters from regions and states and ethnic communities can participate, thereby achieving an inclusive electoral process. During our observation, we noted that legal provisions and arrangements were in place to ensure that the ethnic communities were able to exercise both their right to be elected and their right to vote.
In facilitating election observation, the Union Election Commission shared relevant information with us promptly and demonstrated openness, positivity, and active cooperation with international observers like us. We highly appreciate this transparent approach, as transparency strengthens institutional integrity, public trust, and confidence in the electoral process.
From the international observer’s perspective and in line with established practice, election processes are ongoing and evolving processes. Therefore, it is important to continuously improve voter education programmes, ensure accessibility for all voters, and enhance cooperation among all election stakeholders throughout the entire electoral cycle promptly.
Distinguished Chairman and honoured guests, Nepal is scheduled to hold its election on 5 March 2026, and we continue to face challenges related to election management. At that time, having the opportunity to observe Myanmar’s well-prepared, systematic, and effectively implemented election management processes has been of great value to us. The positive experiences and lessons gained from this observation will be shared and applied in Nepal as we work to ensure integrity, credibility, and public trust in our own electoral processes.
International election observation is not an administrative procedure. It is also an important part of mutual learning and cooperation. We firmly believe that exchanging experiences and knowledge among election management bodies, particularly among ASEAN countries, BIMSTEC member states, and neighbouring countries in the region, is a positive practice that contributes to the conduct of inclusive, credible, and widely accepted elections.
Holding the elections is not only an administrative process. It is an implementation of a nation’s democratic standards and its commitment to the will of the people. From this perspective, we would like to appreciate the Union Election Commission for its professionalism, competence, and dedication in successfully conducting this major general election amid challenging and complex circumstances.
On behalf of the Election Commission of Nepal, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Union Election Commission, the Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and all institutions and departments that cooperated and contributed to the successful conduct of this election.
I would like to conclude by wishing the people of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar peace and stability, and continued progress and development along the democratic path. Thank you.

Mr Mario Jose Armengol Campos, Vietnam-based Nicaraguan Ambassador
Good Morning.
Esteemed Chairman of the Union Election Commission U Than Soe, and Commission members, international election observers, representatives from embassies attending this ceremony and all distinguished guests.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Nicaragua, and as a delegation representing Nicaragua, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Union Election Commission for inviting us to participate as international election observers in Phase I and Phase III of the elections organized by the Commission.
Myanmar is currently at a very important stage in carrying out its electoral processes. By holding these elections, the people are being allowed to choose the representatives who will govern them and to shape their future through democratic means. At the same time, this is also a period in which efforts are being made to strengthen institutions within the country and to accelerate national development.
The election being held demonstrates the strength, unity, and firm determination of the people of Myanmar. Although there are certain unique challenges and difficulties within the country, we observed that the electoral processes were carried out in a normal, systematic, secure, and transparent manner. It is evident that the people of Myanmar can protect their sovereignty and that the will of the people is being respected.
As an election observer, I found that the entire electoral process was implemented properly and correctly, and that the public has confidence in these elections. We were also able to confirm that holding elections is the correct path toward peace, stability, and development.
Public trust is the most fundamental and essential element in ensuring the integrity and credibility of an entire electoral process. During our observations, we also noted that the technology-based voting systems were implemented accurately and effectively.
We observed that election staff carried out their duties with full responsibility, clear understanding, dignity, integrity, impartiality, and transparency. Our country fully supports this election for its fundamental principles of sovereignty, self-determination, freedom, and fairness in every nation.
In observing the electoral processes, we conducted our work with respect and mutual trust between our two countries, and with a correct and respectful attitude toward the will of the Government and the people of Myanmar.
With respect, I would like to recommend on behalf of our observing delegation. To further improve electoral processes in Myanmar, particularly concerning polling station operations and voter verification procedures, we suggest strengthening and enhancing the system for checking voters’ identification cards.
In conclusion, we would like to thank all responsible authorities in Myanmar for inviting us and allowing us to observe these elections transparently. On behalf of our government, we also affirm that we will continue to cooperate with the Union Election Commission in matters related to elections, experience-sharing, and ongoing collaboration.
Finally, on behalf of the President of Nicaragua, Commander Daniel Ortega Saavedra, and Comrade Rosario Murillo, we extend our best wishes to the Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and to the people of Myanmar for greater success, good health, and prosperity. Thank you all.

Dr Chheng Kimlong, Vice-Chairman, International Relations Central Committee, Cambodian People’s Party, International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP)
Esteemed Chairman and Commission members, distinguished guests, we would like to express our sincere gratitude for the opportunity to come to Myanmar at the invitation of the country and to participate as part of a delegation representing the Cambodian People’s Party, as well as for being allowed to deliver remarks today.
We would like to thank the Union Election Commission for inviting us to observe such a perfect and effective election, and for making necessary arrangements to conduct the election observation mission.
We also thank all for briefing the electoral processes of the Union Election Commission and the electronic voting machines to be used in the elections on 24 January when we arrived here.
During these briefings, we received detailed information related to the 2025 elections, including the number of political parties, the number of candidates, the number of eligible voters, the number of constituencies, the number of candidates contesting under political parties, the number of independent candidates, the number of polling stations across townships, the electoral system, and the results obtained from Phases I and II of the elections.
On election day, we visited and observed seven polling stations in different townships. During our observations, we found that the voting process was simple, clear, and transparent, and that polling station staff performed their duties competently and effectively. The polling station environment was peaceful, stable, and secure, and we generally observed that the multiparty democratic general election was being conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
For example, throughout our observation, we noted that each polling station displayed relevant information, including polling station details, lists of political parties, voter lists, lists of independent candidates, lists of advance voters, and voting procedures presented on digital screen televisions. Seating arrangements were also provided for voters who needed to wait.
Moreover, during our observation period, we observed the presence of state-owned and private media, representatives of political parties, domestic and international election observers, and medical teams assigned to each polling station.
We would like to express our gratitude to the Union Election Commission for its efforts to successfully and comprehensively implement the elections, as well as for its close cooperation with all stakeholders involved in the electoral process.
We also conducted interviews at polling stations with local authorities, members of political parties, election commission staff, and voters. We further observed that security personnel had put in place the necessary security arrangements to ensure the successful conduct of the elections, for which we are thankful.
We would like to appreciate the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the Union Election Commission, especially the UEC Chairman and the people of Myanmar for their resilience, unity, strong sense of patriotism, and dedicated efforts to achieve peace, stability, and development while successfully holding these elections.
On behalf of the Cambodian People’s Party and the people of Cambodia, we will continue to work toward building even closer, more positive, and stronger cooperation between Cambodia and Myanmar and between our two peoples.
Through these efforts, we aim to promote unity and development between Cambodia and Myanmar, not only bilaterally but also in the regions. Thank you very much. — MNA/KTZH