Myanmar Holds Contested Election Amid Conflict and Repression

Myanmar Holds Contested Election Amid Conflict and Repression
…………..

Polling stations have opened in parts of Myanmar for an election widely criticised by opposition groups and international observers, as the country remains engulfed in conflict following the 2021 military coup, The Guardian. Large areas of the country are excluded from voting because they are controlled by anti-junta forces or affected by active fighting. The National League for Democracy, previously the most popular party, has been barred from participating, and its leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains detained.

Campaigning has been subdued compared with previous elections, with no mass rallies or prominent party symbols visible. The military says voting will proceed in major cities and portrays the election as a step toward restoring democracy, rejecting international criticism.

The vote has been condemned by the United Nations and several Western governments, while China, Russia, India and Vietnam have expressed support and sent observers, according to state-linked media. The junta says the election is intended for Myanmar’s people, not the international community.

Violence has continued alongside voting preparations. Reports emerged of airstrikes in the Sagaing region shortly before polling, as well as explosions near polling stations and a drone attack targeting a pro-military party office. Residents in Yangon expressed fear of reprisals. Since the coup, tens of thousands have been arrested for political expression.

New laws criminalising criticism of the election carry severe penalties. Rights groups and UN officials say the vote is taking place amid widespread repression, while warning that millions of people will need humanitarian assistance in the coming year.