Myanmar Junta Pushes Ahead with Second Election Phase

The military regime in Myanmar is pressing forward with the second stage of its controversial election this Sunday, 11 January, despite widespread opposition and ongoing armed resistance. Voting will take place in 100 townships across 12 states and regions, with the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) expected to dominate once again.

The polls have been split into three rounds after the junta lost administrative control in much of the country. The first phase, held on 28 December, saw the USDP claim nearly 90 percent of seats. The third and final round is scheduled for 25 January.

Where ballots will be cast

According to the junta-appointed Union Election Commission, voting will be conducted in areas under military control, including parts of Kachin, Karenni, Karen, Sagaing, Tanintharyi, Bago, Magwe, Mandalay, Mon, Yangon, Shan and Ayeyarwady.

Who is running

The USDP is fielding candidates in most constituencies, with several senior figures standing. Among them is Nyo Saw, the junta’s prime minister and close ally of Min Aung Hlaing, contesting Cocokyun Township in Yangon. Other prominent names include Khin Maung Soe in Hlegu, Ko Ko Lwin in Bago’s Padaung, and Myo Zaw Thein in Pauk Khaung.

Independent and smaller party candidates are also in the race, though their chances appear slim. Notable among them are former student activist Kyaw Kyaw Htwe, running in Kawhmu Township, and ex-NLD lawmaker Sandar Min, standing as an independent in Yangon’s Latha Township.

USDP advantage

In several constituencies, particularly in Sagaing and Tanintharyi, the USDP will win uncontested due to a lack of rivals. With the National League for Democracy barred and other pro-democracy parties sidelined, analysts say the regime is using the election to consolidate power and project a veneer of legitimacy.

Under Myanmar’s constitution, the military automatically holds 25 percent of parliamentary seats. Combined with USDP victories, this ensures a legislature dominated by generals. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has openly urged civil servants and military families to back “defence-minded” candidates, and has not ruled out seeking the presidency once parliament convenes.

The second phase of voting is set to further entrench military influence, leaving little doubt about the outcome but raising serious questions about the credibility of the process.

-2026-01-09