Myanmar Conducts Second Round of Elections Amid Controversy

Background and Context

Myanmar held its second round of elections on January 11, 2026, continuing a controversial electoral process that has been criticized for its lack of legitimacy. The first round saw low voter turnout, with many opposition parties either dissolved or boycotting the process. The military-backed parties have dominated the political landscape following the dissolution of major opposition groups, including the National League for Democracy (NLD), which was led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.

Electoral Process and Criticisms

The election process has faced severe criticism from both domestic and international observers. The first round was marked by low participation, which observers attribute to the absence of major opposition parties that were either disqualified or chose to boycott. The second round is seen as an attempt by the military junta to legitimize their control over the country following the 2021 coup that ousted the civilian government.

Political Landscape Post-Coup

The 2021 military coup that detained Aung San Suu Kyi and other NLD leaders triggered widespread civil conflict in Myanmar, a country with a population of 51 million. The NLD, which had won the previous two elections by a landslide, was dissolved along with dozens of other anti-junta parties for failing to register for the election. Various rebel groups have refused to participate in the electoral process, further complicating the political situation.

International and Local Reactions

The international community has expressed concerns over the legitimacy of the electoral process, given the military's significant influence and the absence of major opposition parties. Locally, the process has been met with resistance, with many viewing it as a sham election designed to consolidate military power.