Ballots vs. Bullets: Myanmar's Military-Led Election Begins Amid Civil War

Five years of political silence end this Sunday, but the guns haven't stopped firing. Myanmar's military regime is set to hold its first general election since 2020 on December 28, 2025. It's a high-stakes move to secure 'stability' under military control, yet the nation remains deeply fractured by a brutal civil war.

A Three-Phase Path to Controlled Power

According to Nikkei Asia, the election will unfold in three phases, with results expected next month. The regime aims to end a half-decade stretch without a parliament. However, the atmosphere is far from democratic. Authorities have already charged over 200 people with violating voting laws, a move critics call blatant repression to stifle opposition before the first ballot is cast.

Regional Interests and Resistance

The international response is split. While the U.S. remains wary of military intervention, India has signaled support for the polls, testing its image as the world's largest democracy. Meanwhile, resistance forces have intensified their campaign, even detaining a candidate in state-media-reported incidents, highlighting the massive security risks surrounding the vote.