Myanmar's Military Holds Election in a Nation Divided by Civil War

A vote for stability, or a vote in a warzone? Myanmar's military regime is holding its first general election since seizing power in February 2021, but with the junta controlling only about half the country, the poll's legitimacy is already under intense scrutiny. The election is proceeding amid a brutal civil war, raising deep concerns from the international community.

An Election on Shaky Ground

The initial phase of the election reportedly began on Sunday. However, the junta's effective control is limited to roughly 50% of the nation's territory, making a free and fair nationwide vote impossible. Supporters of the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) were seen campaigning in the capital Naypyitaw on Oct. 28, but this stands in stark contrast to the violent conflict engulfing much of the country.

A Climate of Fear and Violence

The regime's repression has intensified ahead of the vote. According to state media, more than 200 people have been charged with violating voting laws. Anti-junta resistance forces, which do not recognize the election, have reportedly detained at least one election candidate. The violence is unrelenting; a recent junta airstrike on a hospital killed at least 30 people, a grim reminder of the war's human cost.