Story perspectives

Myanmar Votes Amidst Conflict: USDP Leads First Round

1/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Myanmar held the second round of voting for its general election on January 11, 2026, in 100 townships.
This is the first election since the 2021 coup, amid civil conflict and legitimacy concerns raised by United Nations officials.
In the first round, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) dominated, winning nearly 90% of contested seats.
A final round is scheduled for January 25, with 65 townships excluded due to insecurity.

History

Historical Context

Myanmar's political landscape shifted dramatically in 2015 when the National League for Democracy (NLD) won 86% of parliamentary seats in the first openly contested elections since 1990, ending decades of military rule. However, the military coup in February 2021, following the NLD's 2020 electoral victory, has led to ongoing civil conflict and challenges to democratic legitimacy, with the international community closely monitoring the situation.

1 of 2

Story summary

Myanmar held the second round of voting for its general election on January 11, 2026, in 100 townships.
This is the first election since the 2021 coup, amid civil conflict and legitimacy concerns raised by United Nations officials.
In the first round, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) dominated, winning nearly 90% of contested seats.
A final round is scheduled for January 25, with 65 townships excluded due to insecurity.

1 / 2