In brief
The military junta of Myanmar has declared plans to start its phased general elections on December 28, 2025, marking the first vote since its power acquisition through a violent coup in 2021, which overthrew democratically elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Critics are labeling the impending elections as a façade to legitimize the junta's authority while the country remains embroiled in a civil war between government forces and ethnic armed groups, many of whom oppose the polls in their territories.
The election was repeatedly postponed due to the military's inability to quell rising armed opposition, with state media announcing the registration of 55 parties, only nine of which are expected to compete nationally. The ruling junta, under leader Min Aung Hlaing, has claimed that the election will be “free and fair,” an assertion met with skepticism from the international community. The National League for Democracy, which dominated previous elections, has been barred from participation.Opponents argue that the polls are designed merely to project an image of legitimacy and maintain junta control through proxy parties, with calls from various human rights advocates for the international community to disregard the elections. The humanitarian situation in Myanmar is dire, exacerbated by economic devastation and a recent earthquake, leading to fears of widespread starvation and suffering among civilians. Human Rights Watch emphasized that real elections can only occur if the junta ceases hostilities and allows free political participation, highlighting the current election environment as profoundly lacking in credibility.Despite overwhelming unrest and insecurity, the military government remains steadfast in its election plans, underlining its determination to consolidate power in a nation facing monumental challenges.
