Myanmar General Election Phase One Closes Amid Military Control and Opposition Ban
Voting concluded on the first phase of Myanmar's three-phase general election, widely criticised as a sham aimed at legitimising the military junta's rule. The election features mostly candidates allied with the military, with the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) presenting the largest number of candidates. Large regions remain excluded from voting due to active control by anti-junta groups or ongoing armed conflicts.
Aung San Suu Kyi is detained, and her National League for Democracy party has been banned, with no visible red party symbols on the ballots. The election has drawn condemnation from Western governments, while China has expressed support. Observers from China, Russia, India, and Vietnam monitored the process.
Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing claimed the election would be free and fair, urging citizens to participate. Voter turnout in Yangon appeared lower than in previous elections, and campaigning was subdued as many residents hesitated to discuss politics publicly.
The election will continue with its second phase on 11 January and the final phase on 25 January, with preliminary results for the first phase expected on the Sunday following the polls. Although 57 parties are contesting, only six are running nationwide. Significant opposition has been banned, incarcerated, or forced underground.
The United Nations rights office and other officials have warned that the elections are occurring amid violence and repression. Displaced persons have been cautioned about potential consequences if they return to vote, exacerbating an already worsening humanitarian crisis in the country.
