Pickup trucks utilized to bring residents to polling stations due low voter turnout in Kyaukphyu

Narinjara News, December 29, 2025

Reports indicate that voter turnout in the election in Kyaukphyu, Rakhine State, is low, occurring in the context of continued conflict. It has been reported that pickup trucks were utilized to transport residents to polling stations in order to increase voter participation.

In the election held by the military in Kyaukphyu, party members from Dr. Aye Maung’s party reportedly went door-to-door in neighborhoods from 12 pm to 5 pm, pressuring residents to cast their votes.

A female resident informed Narinjara that people were compelled to travel in pickup trucks to cast their votes in Pyin Phyu Maw village prior to the closing of the polling stations.

A local resident reported to Narinjara that gunfire remains audible in the vicinity of Kyaukphyu town, and political parties are making desperate attempts to obtain votes.

Because of the low number of voters, political parties are opting to transport individuals from the town to polling places, as many local residents are reluctant to take part. The man stated that images posted online show people who were brought in the morning, suggesting a lack of genuine interest in the election amid the current conflict.

Residents have also stated that campaign activities are ongoing into the evening, with vehicles playing songs about voting in an effort to promote voter engagement.

Despite the challenging situation, the military junta proceeded with elections in three townships located in Rakhine: Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, and Manaung.