The United Nations, many western countries and human rights groups say the election is a sham exercise that is neither free, fair nor credible in the absence of a meaningful opposition. View image in fullscreen Supporters of the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) dance during an election campaign in Mandalay, central Myanmar, Wednesday, 7 Jan., 2026. In all, there will be voting in 265 of Myanmar’s 330 townships, including areas where the junta does not have full control. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing last month sidestepped a question from a reporter about his political ambitions. He hailed the election as a success during a visit last week to central Myanmar township, where he urged authorities to work to further boost turnout.

Source: The Guardian January 11, 2026 11:35 UTC