Naypyidaw: Myanmar’s dominant pro-military party claimed an overwhelming victory in the first phase of the elections after democracy watchdogs warned the junta-run poll would entrench military rule. The election win will be a way for the ruling junta, in power after a military coup in 2021 against the elected government, to legitimise its governance. Elections were only open in areas under junta control, and there have been reports of the military forcing civilians to vote at gunpoint.

According to France24.com, the election has faced criticism from international observers and democracy advocates who have expressed concerns over the legitimacy of the process. Reports suggest that the elections were conducted under heavy military presence, with allegations of coercion and intimidation tactics employed to ensure a favorable outcome for the pro-military party.

The election process has raised questions about the future of democracy in Myanmar, as the junta seeks to consolidate its power through electoral means.
Observers have noted that the exclusion of certain regions from voting and the reported use of force undermine the credibility of the election results and further entrench the military’s influence over the country’s political landscape.