Myanmar junta collects graduation lists in Yangon ahead of planned elections

Mizzima

Residents across several Yangon townships are expressing deep concern as ward administration offices under the military junta have begun compiling detailed lists of degree holders.

The data collection, which started on 21 December, focuses on graduates from 2015 to 2025, specifically targeting those with degrees in arts and sciences, medicine, law, engineering, and technology.

According to reports from the Rangoon Scout Network (RSN) and local residents, the instructions came from township General Administrators.

In wards across Dagon Seikkan, East Dagon, South Okkalapa, Thaketa, Mingalar Taung Nyunt, and Pazundaung, officials are requesting graduation years, dates of birth, and current phone numbers. In Hlaing Tharyar Township, village administrators are reportedly going door-to-door or using loudspeakers to gather this information from nearly every neighbourhood.

While some administrative sources claim the lists are intended to recruit “volunteers” for voter registration and polling station security, the specific focus on professionals has raised alarms.

Residents fear the data is being collected to enforce the Military Service Law, which sets higher age limits for professionals and specialists compared to the general population. In South Okkalapa and Thaketa, sources close to the administration noted that the junta is particularly interested in doctors and lawyers to assist during the phased elections scheduled to begin on 28 December.