Myanmar Prepares for Its Imperfect Election

Next month’s elections in Myanmar have already been receiving the world’s attention.

There have been plaudits: they “mark a historic step”, and will constitute “an election of many firsts”.

There have been warnings: “The conduct and results of these elections will fundamentally shape our engagement with the Burmese government in 2016 and beyond,” said US assistant secretary of state Daniel Russel.

And there are already observers: from the Carter Centre, the EU and Asean, who are on hand to ensure the November 8 polls are as free and fair as possible.