Archive · 29 Dec 2025
Myanmar Holds First Election Since 2021 Coup
Myanmar is having its first big election in five years.
The military, which took control in 2021, is running the election.
Many people think the election isn't fair because important political parties, like the one led by Aung San Suu Kyi, are not allowed to participate.
The military-backed party is expected to win.
There is a lot of fighting and problems in the country, and many people are not happy with the military.
Some countries, like China and India, might support the election, but others, like Western countries, are against it.
The election is happening in three parts, and the results will come out at the end of January.
Myanmar held the first phase of its general election on December 28, 2024, under military rule.
The election is seen as an attempt to legitimize military rule after the 2021 coup.
Aung San Suu Kyi's party, the National League for Democracy, was dissolved and is not participating.
Critics argue the election lacks legitimacy due to the exclusion of major parties and restrictions on freedom of speech.
The military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party is expected to win, with voting taking place in three phases.
- Who
- Voters in Myanmar, military government, opposition groups, international observers
- What
- First general election in Myanmar since the 2021 military coup
- When
- December 28, 2024 (first phase), with subsequent phases on January 11 and January 25, 2025
- Where
- 102 of Myanmar’s 330 townships, excluding rebel-held areas
- Why
- To provide a facade of legitimacy to military rule and potentially gain international support
Pro-Democracy Groups
Military Junta
Legitimacy of the Election
Pro-Democracy Groups
The election is not free or fair due to the exclusion of major parties and restrictions on freedom of speech.
Military Junta
The election is a step toward democracy and will bring the best for the country.
Violence and Repression
Pro-Democracy Groups
The elections are taking place in an environment of violence and repression, with political prisoners and ongoing civil war.
Military Junta
The military is targeting 'terrorists' and maintaining security for a 'genuine, disciplined multiparty democratic system.'
- Election Date
- December 28, 2024 (first phase)
- Total Phases
- 3
- Next Phases
- January 11 and January 25, 2025
- Expected Results
- Late January 2025
- Candidates
- 4,800 from 57 parties
- Nationwide Competitors
- 6
- Aung San Suu Kyi's Status
- Serving 27-year prison term
- Political Prisoners
- Over 22,000 detained
Sources
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