A surprise trip by Philippine foreign secretary Theresa Lazaro to Naypyitaw has drawn sharp criticism, with observers warning it risks undermining ASEAN’s credibility in handling the Myanmar crisis. Lazaro, acting as the ASEAN chair’s special envoy, met junta leader Min Aung Hlaing this week to discuss the conflict, disputed elections and the bloc’s Five-Point Consensus (5PC).

The visit came as Myanmar’s military regime struggles to stage a three-phase election process widely condemned as fraudulent. ASEAN leaders had previously agreed that violence must cease and inclusive dialogue begin before any polls take place. By engaging the junta mid-process, critics say Lazaro’s mission risks legitimising elections conducted under conditions of war and repression.

Turnout in the first phase of voting was dismal, with independent observers reporting participation closer to 15 per cent despite official claims of 52 per cent. Resistance forces carried out operations during polling days, highlighting the regime’s lack of control. Analysts argue Lazaro’s presence offered Min Aung Hlaing a veneer of normality at a time when his authority is faltering.

The timing is particularly sensitive. The International Criminal Court is reviewing a request for an arrest warrant against Min Aung Hlaing over alleged crimes against humanity linked to the Rohingya crisis. Critics say ASEAN should have exercised restraint before granting high-level visibility to a figure who may soon face international justice.

ASEAN’s own safeguards appear to have been bypassed. Malaysia and Indonesia previously insisted on balanced engagement with all stakeholders, including the National Unity Government (NUG) and ethnic organisations. Lazaro’s visit, however, was not coordinated with them, nor with Myanmar’s opposition. Images of her warmly greeting Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyitaw’s palaces were splashed across junta media, fuelling concerns of premature recognition.

Since 2021, ASEAN has excluded Myanmar’s generals from summits, allowing only non-political representation. That stance has been its strongest leverage. Analysts warn that blurring the line between facilitation and recognition could open the door to the junta’s return to ASEAN’s highest forums, despite ongoing violence.

Observers urge corrective steps: visible engagement with the NUG, a clear rejection of sham elections, and reaffirmation that dialogue must precede polls. Without such measures, they warn, ASEAN risks eroding its unity and credibility—not only in Myanmar but across the region.

-2025-01-10

This is indeed a moral transgression on the part of this ASEAN representative. No recognition whatsoever should be given to this genocidal junta, quite the opposite they should be shunned completely and made to look as illegitimate as they truly are.