Union Solidarity and Development Party

The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) is a political organization in Myanmar with close ties to the military. It gained prominence after the 2021 coup that ousted the elected civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The USDP is newsworthy due to its role in the military junta's efforts to legitimize its rule through elections. Recent events include the junta holding a second phase of elections, widely decried as a 'sham exercise' to formalize military control. Min Aung Hlaing, the coup leader, was elected president by a pro-military parliament, securing 429 out of 584 votes. These actions are seen as consolidating the junta's power and undermining democratic processes in Myanmar, making the USDP a key player in the country's ongoing political crisis and conflict.