Myanmar's Controversial Election: Voter Turnout Amidst Civil War

Mon Dec 29 2025 10:30:42 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As Myanmar holds the first phase of its election amidst ongoing civil conflict and widespread criticism, many voters express a desire for a fairer political future despite the military government's controversial control.

Myanmar's election, dismissed by many as a 'sham', commenced with its first phase of voting amid civil war and government suppression. Observers highlight the military junta's attempt to legitimize its power, as concerns rise about massive voter disenfranchisement and increasing violence during the electoral process. Despite fears, some citizens show resilience, casting their votes in hope for change.

The first of three phases of voting has finished in Myanmar, in an election widely dismissed as a sham, with major political parties dissolved, leaders jailed, and as much as half the country not expected to vote due to an ongoing civil war.

The military government is holding a phased ballot nearly five years after it seized power in a coup, prompting widespread opposition and spiralling into civil war.

Observers say the junta, with China's support, is seeking to legitimise its power as it seeks a way out of the devastating stalemate.

More than 200 people have been charged for disrupting or opposing the polls under a new law which carries severe punishments, including the death penalty.

There were reports of explosions and air strikes across multiple regions as the first round of voting took place on Sunday. A rocket attack on an uninhabited house in the Mandalay region in the early hours of the morning injured three people, the region's chief minister told the BBC.

Separately, a series of explosions damaged more than 10 houses in the Myawaddy township, near the border with Thailand, late on Saturday. A resident told the BBC that a child was killed and three others were taken to hospital.

Voters have told the BBC that the election feels more disciplined and systematic than previous polls. The experience of voting has changed a lot, said Ma Su ZarChi, who lives in the Mandalay region.

Before I voted, I was afraid. Now that I have voted, I feel relieved. I cast my ballot as someone who has tried their best for the country. First-time voter Ei Pyay Phyo Maung, 22, said she was voting because she believed it is the responsibility of every citizen.

My hope is for the lower classes - right now, the prices of goods are skyrocketing, and I want to support someone who can bring them down for those struggling the most, she said.

While the Burmese junta has rejected criticism of the polls, UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews condemned the elections, stating that nothing legitimate can arise from elections held under such conditions.

As Myanmar continues to grapple with its civil war, a grim humanitarian situation looms, exacerbated by natural disasters and international funding cuts.