Voting has begun in Myanmar under conditions widely criticised by international observers, with the military junta tightly controlling the process and opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi formally excluded from participation, raising serious doubts about the credibility and purpose of the polls.
Elections held amid sweeping restrictions
The vote takes place nearly four years after the military seized power, overturning the results of the 2020 election and plunging the country into prolonged political crisis and armed conflict. Since then, the junta has ruled through emergency decrees, dissolved opposition parties, and imposed strict limits on political activity. Large parts of the country remain affected by fighting between the military and resistance groups, leaving millions either displaced or unable to vote.
Opposition effectively dismantled
Aung San Suu Kyi, the long-time democratic figurehead and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, is banned from political life and remains detained under a series of closed-door convictions that rights groups describe as politically motivated. Her party, the National League for Democracy, was dissolved after refusing to re-register under electoral rules set by the military authorities. As a result, most parties contesting the election are either aligned with the junta or newly created entities with limited public support.
Controlled process and limited oversight
The election framework has been designed and administered by bodies appointed by the military leadership. Independent election monitoring is absent, foreign observers have not been invited, and media coverage is heavily restricted. Internet shutdowns, censorship, and laws criminalising criticism of the vote have further constrained public debate. Turnout figures and results are expected to be released solely by the authorities, with no independent verification.
Junta seeks domestic and international legitimacy
The military leadership has presented the election as a step towards restoring “discipline-flourishing democracy” and ending emergency rule. Analysts, however, view the vote primarily as an attempt to legitimise continued military dominance through a controlled civilian façade. By installing a compliant parliament and government, the junta aims to reduce international pressure while maintaining decisive control over security and key economic sectors.
Public scepticism and resistance
Within Myanmar, large segments of the population have rejected the election outright. Opposition groups and the shadow National Unity Government have urged citizens to boycott the vote, arguing that participation would validate military rule. In many regions, local resistance forces have warned that polling cannot be conducted safely, underscoring the disconnect between the junta’s political roadmap and realities on the ground.
International reaction and broader implications
Western governments and human-rights organisations have dismissed the election as neither free nor fair, reiterating calls for the release of political prisoners and a return to inclusive dialogue. Regional responses have been more cautious, reflecting divisions within ASEAN over how to address Myanmar’s crisis. The outcome of the vote is unlikely to alter Myanmar’s isolation or resolve the underlying conflict, instead entrenching a political stalemate with severe humanitarian consequences.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – 28 December 2025
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