Myanmar Opposition Rejects Military's Peace Talk Offer

The main opposition group in Myanmar has rejected the military's proposal for peace talks. The National Unity Government and various ethnic militias remain firm on their conditions for a political resolution, which includes the military's unconditional acceptance of a democratic transition and termination of its political role.

The main opposition group in Myanmar rejected on Friday a surprise offer from the ruling generals to engage in peace talks aimed at solving the nationwide armed conflict.

Nay Phone Latt, a spokesperson for the shadow National Unity Government, told The Associated Press that existing conditions set by the opposition already lay the groundwork for discussions if the military agrees to them.

Similarly, Padoh Saw Kalae Say, a spokesperson for the Karen National Union, also dismissed the military's offer, stating that the proposal's ideas are outdated and unacceptable.

The latest offer, published in state-run newspapers, represents the military's most direct call for peace talks since its 2021 coup. It invited opposition groups to engage through political channels to achieve lasting peace and development, emphasizing the abandonment of armed conflict.

This offer comes ahead of a national census set to compile voter lists for a planned general election. However, organizing such an election during ongoing conflict raises concerns about its fairness and feasibility. The military has pushed back the election date multiple times since its initial announcement.

Despite the offer, the military has faced significant battlefield defeats against ethnic militias and hundreds of guerrilla groups. The opposition's political road map, endorsed earlier this year, demands the military's exit from politics, enforcement under a civilian government, and the establishment of a federal democratic union.

(With inputs from agencies.)