KAWHMU, Myanmar, Jan 11, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Myanmar's junta opened polls on Sunday in the second phase of elections, continuing a vote democracy watchdogs say is letting the military prolong its rule in a civilian guise. But the military snatched back power in a 2021 coup, voiding the results of the previous election, detaining democratic figurehead Aung San Suu Kyi and plunging Myanmar into civil war. Farmer Than Than Sint acknowledged the country's "many problems", telling AFP she voted to fulfil her civic duty and wanted peace in Myanmar. "The people have very little interest in this election," added the resident, speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity for security reasons. - 'Engineered' polls -The first phase had a turnout of around 50 percent, far below the roughly 70 percent of the 2020 election when most voters backed Suu Kyi's party.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 11, 2026 15:00 UTC