The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) does not recognize the recently concluded elections held in military-ruled Myanmar, according to Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro on Thursday. Lazaro made the statement following the conclusion of ASEAN’s first ministerial meetings for the year in Cebu, where the situation in Myanmar dominated discussions.
Speaking at a press conference, Lazaro confirmed the bloc’s position, stating ASEAN “has not endorsed the three phases of the elections that were held” in the nation. Rappler reported that Lazaro clarified that the regional bloc had not yet reached a consensus regarding the validity of the vote, noting the entire process remains technically unfinished.
This stance represents a significant obstacle for Myanmar’s military rulers, who seized power in a 2021 coup and sought the elections as a means to gain international and regional acceptance. The military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) claimed a majority victory on Monday, based on preliminary tallies reported by AFP.
Critics maintain that the elections lacked freedom and fairness, citing the exclusion of major opposition parties, viewing the exercise primarily as an effort to legitimize ongoing military governance. The military administration previously indicated that parliament would convene in March, with a new government taking office in April.
ASEAN, whose membership includes Myanmar, has consistently refused to recognize the authority installed after the 2021 removal of the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The subsequent conflict has plunged Myanmar into protracted civil war.
Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan indicated the necessary preconditions for legitimacy, stating that “Meaningful political progress in Myanmar requires a cessation of hostilities, inclusive dialogue and participation by all stakeholders.” These steps, he asserted, are vital for any governing body to gain popular support, according to The Associated Press.
The Philippines currently occupies the rotating ASEAN chairmanship, a position Myanmar was suspended from following the 2021 military takeover. The non-recognition decision underscores the regional bloc’s continued disagreement with the junta’s trajectory toward normalized governance.
