Full Breakdown
Myanmar's Controversial Military-Run Elections Enter Second Phase Amid Ongoing Conflict
1/11/2026, 10:54:22 PM
Overview of the Election Process
On January 11, 2026, Myanmar commenced the second phase of its general election, marking the first electoral process since the military coup in February 2021. This election is being conducted in three phases due to ongoing civil conflict, with the first phase held on December 28, 2025, in 102 of the country’s 330 townships. The final phase is scheduled for January 25, 2026, while 65 townships will not participate due to security concerns stemming from armed clashes.
Polling stations opened at 6 a.m. local time in 100 townships across various regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay, and Bago. The military government claims that over 24 million individuals are eligible to vote, although this figure represents a 35% decrease from the 2020 elections.
Dominance of the Union Solidarity and Development Party
The military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) has emerged as a dominant force, winning nearly 90% of the contested seats in the first phase. Analysts, including Richard Horsey from Crisis Group, have criticized the election as heavily biased in favor of the USDP, citing the removal of serious opposition and laws designed to suppress dissent. The National League for Democracy (NLD), led by Aung San Suu Kyi, was dissolved in 2023 after refusing to register under new military regulations, effectively eliminating a significant opposition.
Criticism and Allegations of a "Sham" Election
The elections have been widely condemned by international observers, including the United Nations. Tom Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, described the electoral process as a "sham," emphasizing that it cannot be considered free or fair given the political repression, the jailing of thousands of opponents, and the dissolution of major opposition parties. He stated, “You cannot have a free, fair or credible election when thousands of political prisoners are behind bars.”
Human rights groups have reported that over 22,000 individuals are currently detained for political offenses, and new laws impose severe penalties for any criticism of the electoral process. These measures have led to a climate of fear, with many citizens expressing skepticism about the legitimacy of the elections.
Public Sentiment and Voter Participation
Voter turnout in the first phase was reported at 52.13%, significantly lower than previous elections. Reports from polling stations indicated mixed participation, with some areas experiencing long queues while others saw minimal voter engagement. A voter in Yangon expressed hope for peace despite the challenges, while another voiced skepticism, stating, “The results lie only in the mouth of the military.”
Conclusion and Future Implications
As Myanmar approaches the final phase of its elections, the military junta continues to assert that the electoral process will lead to political stability. However, analysts warn that the ongoing conflict and lack of credible opposition will hinder any potential for genuine governance. The international community remains watchful, with calls for the rejection of the election as a legitimate expression of the people's will. The outcome of this election will likely have significant implications for Myanmar's political landscape and the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
