Polls close on first day of Myanmar's widely criticised 'sham' election

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 4 min read 100% complete December 28, 2025 at 08:37 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Myanmar's military junta held the first phase of a multi-stage election on Sunday, widely criticized as a "sham" due to the dissolution of major parties, imprisonment of leaders, and ongoing civil war preventing voting in large areas. The election, taking place nearly five years after the military coup, is seen by observers as an attempt by the junta to legitimize its power amid a devastating stalemate. Over 200 people have been charged for opposing the polls, facing severe punishments. The first day of voting was marked by reports of explosions and airstrikes in multiple regions, causing casualties. Despite the violence and criticism, the junta claims the election aims to return the country to a multi-party democratic system.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Yangon 40% Myawaddy 40% Thailand 40% Armed Forces 50% China 50% BBC Burmese 60% Mandalay ×270% Min Aung Hlaing 70% Myanmar ×590%

Keywords

myanmar election 100% sham election 90% military government 80% civil war 70% junta 70% political parties dissolved 60% min aung hlaing 50% rocket attack 40% voter 40%