Yangon, August 1 — Myanmar's ruling junta has extended the state of emergency in the country for another six months. The announcement was made on July 31 by the junta's acting president, Min Aung Hlaing, who stated that more time is needed to restore stability and security.

The decision was made during a meeting of the National Defense and Security Council (NDSC) in the capital, Naypyidaw. Min Aung Hlaing noted that the junta's initial plan after seizing power on February 1, 2021, was to conduct national elections following a two-year state of emergency. However, ongoing unrest has hindered the possibility of democratic elections.

He emphasized the need for a nationwide census to ensure an accurate voter list for the potential 2025 elections, which has necessitated the extension of the emergency period.

The junta chief justified the extension by citing the need to address "terrorist activities" perpetrated by the civilian National Unity Government, its armed wing the People's Defense Forces (PDF), and other ethnic armed groups. The state of emergency, originally imposed following a military coup, is aimed at restoring order amidst widespread violence and instability.