As Myanmar continues to grapple with the aftermath of a civil war ignited by a military coup in 2021, the nation is now navigating the tumultuous waters of its general elections. The ongoing conflict not only raises questions about the legitimacy of the electoral process but also underscores the resilience and aspirations of the Myanmar population yearning for peace and democracy amidst adversity. With global scrutiny increasing, the unfolding drama around this crucial moment will have lasting implications for the country’s future.
Myanmar has initiated the second phase of its highly scrutinized general elections amid ongoing civil strife and accusations that the process aims to legitimize military rule. Polling stations opened at 6 a.m. local time across 100 townships spanning parts of Sagaing, Magway, Mandalay, Bago, and Tanintharyi regions, as well as Mon, Shan, Kachin, Kayah, and Kayin states on January 11, 2026. Many of these areas have recently experienced violent clashes or remain under heightened security measures, reflecting the broader instability that has characterized the nation’s political landscape.
Since the military ousted the civilian government in a coup two years ago, Myanmar has been ensnared in a violent civil war that has affected vast segments of its population of 51 million. The government’s actions have raised serious concerns regarding human rights and governance, particularly following the arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi, the country’s leader and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Her party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), renowned for its sweeping victory in the 2020 elections, has been dissolved alongside numerous anti-military parties that failed to register for the current elections.
The electoral process has been staggered over three phases due to the ongoing chaos, with the first phase having taken place on December 28 in 102 of the country’s 330 townships. A third phase is planned for January 25, while 65 townships will not participate because of continued violence. The military government has claimed a voter turnout of 52 percent from the December vote, with the pro-military Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) asserting that it won over 80 percent of contested seats in the lower legislative house.
Experts have noted the inherent limitations of these elections, questioning the fairness of the proceedings that have been heavily skewed in favor of the military-backed party. Richard Horsey, a senior adviser for Crisis Group, remarked on the systemic disadvantages faced by opposition groups, including the disbanding of rivals and legislation aiming to suppress dissent against the elections.
Myanmar’s bicameral national legislature comprises 664 seats, and the party achieving a majority can select a new president and form a government. Notably, the military automatically secures 25 percent of the legislative seats, as stipulated in the country’s constitution. As people in Yangon, the largest city, voted at various institutions, including schools and religious buildings, the shared desire for stability and peace among the electorate was palpable. A farmer in the Kawhmu constituency expressed hope for improvement despite the prevailing difficulties, while others voiced skepticism about the electoral integrity, emphasizing the disconnect between military narratives and the situation on the ground.
Both the United Nations and various human rights organizations have condemned the elections as a “sham” aimed at whitewashing the military’s image. Tom Andrews, the UN special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, described the election as a “theatrical performance designed to dupe the international community,” exposing the dire risks for those opposing the regime. Laws implemented prior to the elections have criminalized protest or criticism, with severe repercussions, reflecting the overarching climate of repression in the country. Currently, thousands remain incarcerated for political offenses, illustrating a broader narrative of struggle and resilience within Myanmar’s society as it navigates toward an uncertain future.
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