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Myanmar 'Sham Election' Deepens Crisis

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. /01/25/myanmar-sham-election-deepens-crisis.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, January 25th 2026 at 17:19 GMT by Le Monde.fr
      Locales: MYANMAR, FRANCE

Naypyidaw, Myanmar - January 25th, 2026 - As the sun sets on what many are calling a "sham election," Myanmar finds itself deeper entrenched in a cycle of conflict and political instability. Today's vote, the final phase of a long-delayed and heavily criticized election, is being presented by the ruling military junta as a pathway to normalcy. However, the international community and pro-democracy advocates overwhelmingly view it as a calculated maneuver to solidify the military's power, ignoring the widespread dissent and armed resistance challenging its authority.

The election, held under extraordinarily restrictive conditions nearly three years after the February 2021 coup that toppled the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy (NLD), is designed to project an image of legitimacy. The NLD, once the dominant political force, remains outlawed, and its leaders are imprisoned, effectively silencing the voices of the opposition.

A Carefully Curated Process

The voting process itself is a stark illustration of the junta's control. Elections are only taking place in areas deemed "safe" by the military - regions where resistance is minimized and the population is, by and large, compliant. These areas do not represent a fair or comprehensive reflection of the nation's will. Stringent security measures are in place, limiting freedom of movement and severely curtailing the ability of independent media and international observers to monitor the proceedings. This lack of transparency further undermines any claim of a genuine democratic process. Furthermore, significant portions of the population, including many ethnic minorities and those aligned with resistance movements, are actively boycotting the vote, rendering it fundamentally unrepresentative.

Expected Outcomes and Pro-Military Dominance

Early indications strongly suggest a predictable outcome: a landslide victory for the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), the military's primary political ally. Several other parties hand-picked and supported by the junta are also expected to secure significant representation. This pre-determined outcome highlights the election's lack of genuine choice for the Burmese people.

The junta's control extends beyond merely shaping the political landscape; it also encompasses the narrative surrounding the election. State-controlled media is presenting a picture of a peaceful and orderly process, deliberately ignoring the widespread condemnation and underlying tensions.

International Condemnation and the NUG's Perspective

The international community has largely condemned the election, with governments worldwide rejecting its legitimacy and refusing to recognize its outcome. The United Nations continues to advocate for the release of political prisoners, a return to democratic governance, and a cessation of hostilities.

The National Unity Government (NUG), a shadow government formed by opponents of the military, has unequivocally denounced the election as a "farce" designed to "legitimize the junta's rule and further oppress the people of Myanmar." The NUG's perspective underscores the deep-seated opposition to the military's authority and the desire for a truly democratic future.

Future Instability and the Ongoing Conflict

The election's aftermath is fraught with potential risks. The continuation of clashes between the military and various armed resistance groups across the country - including ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) and People's Defence Forces (PDFs) - points to prolonged instability. The military's attempts to control the narrative and suppress dissent through force are likely to exacerbate the conflict and deepen the humanitarian crisis. The lack of genuine political representation for large segments of the population creates a fertile ground for continued unrest and resistance. The long-term implications of this election will likely be a reinforcement of the military's grip on power, further marginalization of dissenting voices, and a protracted period of political and economic hardship for the people of Myanmar.