Myanmar, Naypyitaw: Myanmar's military government plans to conduct a nationwide census from October 1-15 to facilitate a general election next year. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing stated that the census data will be used to create accurate voter lists, essential for a fair election. However, the proposed election is widely criticized as a sham, with many parties, including the dominant National League for Democracy (NLD), disbanded and excluded from participating.

Since the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar has been engulfed in conflict and turmoil. The junta's claims of election fraud have been widely disputed, and the coup led to violent crackdowns and an armed resistance movement. The military government has lost control over much of the country, with significant portions under the influence of resistance and ethnic minority groups.

The international community, including neighboring countries, is urged by the National Unity Government (NUG), which opposes the junta, to condemn both the census and the forthcoming election. They argue that the junta's actions are aimed at further oppression and manipulation rather than genuine democratic reform.