Myanmar elections proceed under junta control amidst civil war

Myanmar is holding its first general election since the 2021 military coup, with voting beginning on December 28, 2025. The elections are widely criticized as a "sham" due to the ongoing civil war, the exclusion of major opposition parties, and severe restrictions on freedoms. Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy (NLD) are banned from participating, with Suu Kyi imprisoned. The military junta aims to legitimize its rule through this election, despite widespread international condemnation and lack of credibility. The election process is marred by violence, coercion, and a crackdown on dissent. Neighboring countries like China and India have shown support for the election process, while Western nations maintain sanctions. The election is not nationwide and large areas are excluded due to conflict.

• Myanmar's first post-coup election began on December 28, 2025.
• Aung San Suu Kyi and her NLD party are banned from the elections.
• The elections are widely criticized as a "sham" due to conflict and repression.
• Large areas of Myanmar are excluded from voting due to ongoing civil war.
• The junta seeks legitimacy, facing international condemnation and sanctions.
• Coercion and a crackdown on dissent characterize the electoral process.

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