Party backed by generals set for landslide as 'sham' Myanmar election ends

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete January 25, 2026 at 02:05 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Myanmar's military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) is expected to win a landslide victory in elections that concluded after a final round of voting. The elections, held in three stages across December and January, have been widely criticized as a sham due to the banning of popular parties and the inability to vote in conflict areas. Despite international criticism, the ruling junta claims the election was free and fair. While voting appeared orderly in observed areas, the campaign period was marked by intimidation and heavy surveillance. Following the announcement of final results, parliament will convene to select a new president, widely expected to be coup leader Gen Min Aung Hlaing, who will then relinquish his military command.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Jonathan Head 60% Josh Cheetham 60% Yangon 60% Mandalay 60% BBC ×260% Nyaungshwe ×270% Min Aung Hlaing 80% Shan State ×380% Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) ×490% Myanmar 90%

Keywords

sham election 100% military junta 90% landslide victory 80% civil war 70% political intimidation 70% usdp 60% min aung hlaing 60% military-drafted constitution 50% parliamentary seats 40%