Myanmar’s first post-coup election sees low turnout amid civil war and credibility concerns

Myanmar held the first phase of its general election since the 2021 military coup amid civil war, low turnout, and widespread criticism over its credibility. Opposition parties are largely barred, key leaders like Aung San Suu Kyi remain detained, and the military-backed USDP is expected to dominate. The UN and Western governments denounced the polls as neither free nor fair, while violence and boycotts further undermined participation.