Myanmar Election 2026 Draws Criticism as Military-Backed Party Tightens Grip on Power

Polling stations across Myanmar opened on Sunday for the final phase of a controversial general election held amid ongoing civil war and political repression. The vote, widely criticised by the United Nations, Western governments, and human rights groups, is expected to cement the dominance of a military-backed party and pave the way for junta chief Min Aung Hlaing to assume a formal political role.

The final round follows two earlier phases conducted on December 28 and January 11, both marked by low voter turnout of around 55%. This figure is significantly lower than the roughly 70% turnout recorded during Myanmar’s 2015 and 2020 general elections, which were won by the now-dissolved National League for Democracy. Voting in the latest phase took place in 60 townships, including major urban centres such as Yangon and Mandalay, despite persistent fighting and security concerns.

Myanmar has been engulfed in conflict since a military coup on February 1, 2021, overthrew the elected civilian government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. The 80-year-old leader remains in detention, while her party and other opposition groups have been banned, creating an uneven political landscape that strongly favours the military-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party.

According to Myanmar’s election commission, the USDP has already secured 193 of 209 seats in the lower house and 52 of 78 seats in the upper house, giving it overwhelming control of parliament. The party, chaired by a retired brigadier general and dominated by former military officers, previously governed Myanmar from 2011 to 2016.

Despite promises by the ruling junta to transfer power to a new government by April, analysts warn the election is unlikely to restore domestic legitimacy or improve Myanmar’s international standing. Fighting has continued throughout the campaign, including air strikes near civilian areas in Rakhine, Shan, and Kayin states. Residents in major cities report voting under fear of arrest, while the military denies coercion and says the election reflects public support.