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Myanmar Holds First Round of Junta-Run Parliamentary Vote

With the main opposition barred, observers question any claim to a democratic mandate.

Overview

  • Balloting took place only in military-controlled districts as conflict prevented nationwide voting in areas held by resistance groups.
  • Reports pointed to sparse participation in parts of Yangon and to small explosions near several polling stations, with no large-scale attacks confirmed.
  • Aung San Suu Kyi remains detained and the NLD is excluded, while the military-backed USDP is widely expected to benefit from the process.
  • UN officials and rights groups condemned the vote, citing tightened election laws, arrests under a new election‑protection statute, and accounts of coercion to cast ballots.
  • Further rounds are set for January 11 and 25 with results expected at the end of January, as China and Russia continue to support the junta and the election.