Executive Summary: Myanmar’s military government has announced the country’s first general election since the 2021 coup will begin on 28 December 2025. The phased poll, dismissed by critics as a sham, aims to legitimize the junta’s rule amid ongoing civil conflict and widespread opposition.
Who: The election is orchestrated by Myanmar’s military junta, led by General Min Aung Hlaing, who seized power in 2021. Key stakeholders include 55 registered parties—nine competing nationwide—and resistance groups controlling large territories. The National League for Democracy (NLD), the party of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi, is barred from participation.
What: Myanmar will hold its first general election since the coup, conducted in multiple phases. The junta frames it as a ‘free and fair’ democratic exercise, while opponents condemn it as a tool to cement military authority. Voting will exclude conflict zones, and critics face threats of punishment.
When: The first phase begins on 28 December 2025, with subsequent phases to be announced. The announcement follows repeated delays due to the military’s failure to suppress resistance forces. The timing coincides with severe humanitarian crises, including post-earthquake recovery.
Where: The election is planned for government-controlled areas, though much of Myanmar remains under ethnic armed groups or resistance control. These groups have vowed to block voting, making nationwide participation impossible and exposing logistical frailties.
Why: The junta seeks legitimacy after years of isolation, violence, and economic collapse. China supports the polls to stabilize its strategic neighbor, while critics argue the military aims to install proxy parties. The exclusion of the NLD and suppression of dissent reveal the vote’s engineered outcome.
How: Myanmar’s junta-appointed election commission oversees the process. The military has threatened ‘severe punishment’ for obstruction or criticism. With opposition parties banned and media silenced, the structure ensures military-aligned groups dominate. Phased voting allows tactical focus on secure zones.
Impact: The announcement deepens Myanmar’s crisis. Humanitarian disasters—including famine and displacement—worsen as resources divert to election logistics. International bodies like the UN warn the ‘mirage’ vote will escalate conflict and suffering, while China’s backing complicates global pressure.
What’s Next: Resistance forces will likely intensify attacks to disrupt polling. The international community faces calls to reject the results and increase sanctions. Without credible participation, the election may fragment Myanmar further, prolonging war and delaying democratic restoration.