Myanmar’s military is losing ground against coordinated attacks, buoying opposition hopes
NBCDEC 1 2023
Junta Chief: Myanmar Polls May Not Be Held Nationwide
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The Spin
Narrative A
The Myanmar junta's plan to hold elections is unlikely to carry legitimacy, with opposition parties banned and the main opposition decimated. The military is seeking credibility amid guerrilla threats. Anti-junta forces control significant territory, causing the deadliest conflict since Ukraine, even if not as well-known worldwide. Only real elections can accommodate Myanmar's ethnic diversity.
Narrative B
The opposition rebel militia of Myanmar is making the country's military junta sweat. Significant losses, widespread displacement and casualties, and loss of morale have hurt the rulers. The turmoil is a potential turning point in the struggle for power in the Southeast Asian nation, with its diverse opposition forces uniting and hopefully determined enough this time to overthrow the junta.