Myanmar’s military coup leaders call for political dialogue amidst pressure from opponents
Myanmar’s State Administration Council (SAC) has made a surprising plea for opponents to lay down their arms and engage in political dialogue, a move that was swiftly rejected by the National Unity Government (NUG).
The SAC, led by the military generals who seized power in 2021, urged ethnic armed groups and People’s Defence Forces (PDF) to end what they termed as “terrorist activities” and opt for peaceful discussions.
However, the armed groups, who have gained control over parts of the country, have put immense pressure on the military since launching a joint offensive last year.
Despite the SAC’s call for dialogue and promise of new elections, the NUG dismissed the offer, emphasizing the ongoing brutality and human rights violations committed by the military. Civil society groups also criticized the proposed elections as a sham.
With the country’s history of military rule, critics remain skeptical of the SAC’s intentions, viewing the move as a tactic to gain false legitimacy in the eyes of the international community.