Myanmar’s Exiled Parliament Challenges Junta at Geneva Summit

Myanmar’s exiled parliamentary body, the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH), has called on global lawmakers to reject the military junta’s planned elections, warning they would legitimise dictatorship and transnational crime. The appeal was made during the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly held in Geneva from 19 to 23 October.

In a statement released after the conference, the CRPH described the junta’s proposed elections as “unfair” and “illegitimate”, arguing they are designed to entrench military rule rather than resolve Myanmar’s ongoing crisis. The group urged parliaments worldwide not to recognise any legislature formed under the junta’s control.

Led by Dr Win Myat Aye, the CRPH delegation met with representatives from Malaysia, Thailand, Italy, Canada, New Zealand, Sweden and Australia. They briefed counterparts on escalating airstrikes, human rights abuses, and the growing number of displaced civilians and exiles. The delegation also warned that backing the junta’s election plan would effectively endorse online scam networks operating across the region.

“People in more than 70 countries are being enslaved by these scam centres,” Dr Win said. “Supporting the military dictatorship’s upcoming elections would be equivalent to legitimising online fraud and undermining regional security.”

The IPU, which brings together parliaments from 183 countries, reaffirmed its recognition of the CRPH as Myanmar’s legitimate parliamentary representative—a position it has maintained since the 2021 coup. The CRPH said this continued support reflects the global community’s commitment to Myanmar’s pro-democracy movement.

During the Geneva assembly, the CRPH participated in the Asia-Pacific Group, the Women Parliamentarians Forum, and the Executive Council meeting. Its central message was clear: the military’s election plan is not a path to peace, but a tactic to mask repression and criminal enterprise.

As Myanmar’s crisis deepens, the CRPH’s appeal in Geneva highlights the growing urgency for international solidarity. The group insists that only a democratic process led by the people—not the military—can offer a sustainable resolution.

-2025-10-26