Myanmar election: Residents head to voting booths as nation moves into second phase of polls

Key Concepts

• Staggered Elections: Myanmar’s elections are being held in three phases due to ongoing conflict and political instability.
• Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP): The army-backed political party currently leading the election results.
• Election Eligibility Criteria: Strict requirements imposed by the military junta limiting the number of contesting parties.
• ASEAN Stance: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ continued refusal to recognize the military government as legitimate.
• Voter Turnout: The percentage of eligible voters participating in the elections, currently low at 52%.

Phase One Election Results and Context

Phase one of Myanmar’s staggered elections concluded on December 28th, with the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) securing a significant lead, winning approximately 90% of the contested seats. This outcome was largely anticipated by observers, who note that the post-coup election rules have been structured to favor the USDP and disadvantage other political parties. Currently, only six out of over 50 registered political parties met the stringent eligibility criteria to participate nationwide. This criteria effectively sidelined many opposition groups.

Voter Participation and International Observation

Voter turnout in the initial phase was notably low, registering at only 52%. Despite this, the Myanmar military expressed optimism regarding the election process. They reported granting access to approximately 1,500 local and international observers and journalists to monitor the polling stations. The countries that dispatched observers included China, Belarus, Cambodia, India, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Vietnam. These observers, according to the military, characterized the election process as “lawful, transparent, well-run, and peaceful.”

Allegations of Disruption and Legal Action

Despite claims of a peaceful process, the military stated that it prosecuted 335 individuals for allegedly disrupting the elections. The cited offenses included attacks on polling stations, road blockades, and the intimidation of voters, as well as the dissemination of false information. This highlights the ongoing conflict and resistance to the elections.

Ongoing Conflict and Limited Voting Access

Myanmar is proceeding with elections across three phases despite continued violence throughout the country. Critically, 20% of the nation’s total townships are unable to participate in the voting process due to security concerns, as cited by the military. Nevertheless, the military maintains its belief that these elections will guide the country “back onto the path to democracy.”

Timeline and Future Government Formation

The election body anticipates announcing the combined results of all three phases by the end of January. Following this, parliament is expected to be formed within 90 days. However, even with the completion of the elections and the establishment of a new government, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) remains steadfast in its position.

ASEAN’s Position on Myanmar

ASEAN has stipulated that Myanmar will only be represented at ASEAN summits and foreign ministers’ meetings by a non-political representative. Furthermore, Myanmar will not be permitted to chair ASEAN unless the bloc collectively decides otherwise. This demonstrates ASEAN’s continued disapproval of the military junta and its insistence on a return to civilian rule. As stated by CNA’s Leong Wa Kit, this stance remains “firm.”