Myanmar to Hold General Elections Despite Controversy
Myanmar is set to kick off its general elections on 28 December, as announced by its military government, in a phased poll that has sparked widespread condemnation for its perceived lack of legitimacy and potential to further entrench the junta’s power.
This upcoming election will mark the first since the military seized control in a violent coup in 2021, resulting in the detention of the democratically elected leader, Aung San Sung Kyi.
The country has since been plunged into a civil war, with fierce clashes between the military and various ethnic armed groups, many of which have vowed to block voting in their respective territories.
Several previous attempts to hold elections were postponed as the military faced challenges from an opposition insurgency that has gained significant control over parts of Myanmar.
According to state media, 55 parties have registered for the upcoming polls, with nine of them preparing to compete nationwide.
“The first phase of the multi-party democratic general election for each parliament will begin on Sunday, 28 December 2025,” stated Myanmar’s election commission.
“Dates for subsequent phases will be disclosed later.”
Despite facing logistical hurdles due to the ongoing conflict and opposition control in several regions, the junta, led by Min Aung Hlaing, has insisted on proceeding with the election and issued warnings of severe consequences for any dissent.
The National League for Democracy, led by Suu Kyi, which secured major victories in previous elections, has been barred from participating in the upcoming poll.
The planned election has been met with skepticism, but has garnered support from China, Myanmar’s influential neighbor, which sees stability in the region as crucial to its strategic interests.
Critics fear that the junta will exploit the polls to maintain its grip on power through proxy political entities.
International condemnation has been swift, with UN special rapporteur Tom Andrews labeling the election as a “mirage” designed to legitimize the junta’s rule.
Since the coup, Myanmar has been rocked by violence, economic devastation, and humanitarian crises exacerbated by a major earthquake and funding cuts.
Human Rights Watch has dismissed the election as lacking credibility and called for an end to violence, release of detainees, and inclusive participation of all political parties to ensure a fair electoral process.
“The junta’s expectations of a credible election under these circumstances are delusional,” said the NGO in a statement to the BBC.
