Summary
Myanmar's military-supported party, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), is leading in the ongoing general election, having secured a significant number of seats in the first two rounds of voting. The election takes place amid conflicts and allegations of unfairness. The final voting round is scheduled for January 25, with the announcement of final results expected by late January.
Key Facts
- The USDP is on track to win 182 seats, which is more than half of the 330-seat lower house.
- The election is happening in three phases due to conflicts in Myanmar, with the first two phases completed.
- The USDP won 86 out of 100 seats available in the second phase of voting.
- The final voting phase is set for January 25, and some areas are not participating because of ongoing fighting.
- Critics argue the election is not free or fair, claiming it seeks to legitimize military power after it seized control in 2021.
- More than 4,800 candidates from 57 political parties are competing in the election.
- The election occurs as Myanmar faces accusations of genocide against the Rohingya people at the International Court of Justice.
- A new law imposes penalties for public criticism of the election, resulting in charges against over 330 people.
