Junta-backed party secures sweeping victory in Myanmar’s ‘sham’ election

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by ReutersJanuary 30, 2026 at 07:46 AM

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medium article 3 min

Myanmar's military-backed Union and Solidarity Party (USDP) has secured a sweeping victory in the country's general election, held in three phases since December 28, 2023. The USDP won a majority in both legislative chambers, according to state media reports released in February 2024. The election took place amidst ongoing civil war and widespread repression following the 2021 military coup. Critics, including ASEAN and human rights groups, have denounced the election as a sham designed to entrench military rule, citing the dissolution of opposition parties and guaranteed military representation in parliament. The newly elected parliament is expected to convene in March to elect a president, with a new government taking over in April.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Zaw Min Tun 40% Association of Southeast Asian Nations 50% Pyithu Hluttaw 50% Amyotha Hluttaw 50% Min Aung Hlaing 60% Aung San Suu Kyi ×270% Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) ×490% Myanmar ×8100%

Keywords

myanmar 100% election 90% military junta 80% union solidarity party 80% political repression 70% sham election 70% civil war 60% coup 60% political turmoil 50% military rule 50%