Myanmar’s military tightens political grip as final voting phase opens

Polling stations opened across Myanmar on Sunday (25 January) for the final phase of elections widely expected to consolidate military-backed rule.

The junta-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) has already secured an overwhelming majority, winning 193 of 209 seats in the lower house and 52 of 78 seats in the upper house, according to the election commission. Voting in 60 remaining townships is expected to cement its lead.

Turnout across earlier phases stood at 55%, well below participation levels seen before the 2021 military coup.

Military chief Min Aung Hlaing has signalled plans to transition into civilian politics and is widely expected to become president when parliament convenes. Despite this, he has reiterated that the Tatmadaw will retain its central role in national security.

The elections have drawn strong international criticism, with rights experts and regional governments questioning their legitimacy amid ongoing conflict and limited territorial control by the military.

Key developments

• USDP dominance across both parliamentary chambers

• Turnout significantly lower than pre-coup elections

• Military leadership signalling a civilian political transition

• ASEAN and UN figures declining to endorse the vote

• Continued conflict and allegations of human rights abuses

ℹ️ DW News