Mon Aug 18 06:48:57 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Myanmar’s military junta has announced a phased election starting December 28, 2025. This election is widely criticized by opposition groups and international monitors, particularly as Aung San Suu Kyi remains imprisoned. Many areas are controlled by pro-democracy groups and ethnic organizations who plan to block the polls. The junta claims the election will end the ongoing civil war, but critics see it as a ploy to legitimize military rule.
**News Article:**
**Myanmar Junta Announces Phased Elections Amidst Boycott and Criticism**
*Yangon, August 18, 2025* – Myanmar’s ruling military junta has announced that a phased general election will begin on December 28, 2025, according to a statement released today. The Union Election Commission stated that this marks the first phase of the multi-party democratic general election for each parliament. Dates for subsequent phases will be announced later.
However, the announced elections are facing widespread criticism. Opposition groups and international monitors are condemning the move, particularly given the continued imprisonment of democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was deposed in the 2021 coup.
Since the coup, Myanmar has been embroiled in a civil war. Significant portions of the country are now beyond the control of the military, administered by various pro-democracy guerrillas and ethnic armed organizations. These groups have already vowed to block the elections in their respective enclaves.
While the junta is promoting the election as a path to resolving the ongoing conflict, critics are dismissing it as a fraudulent attempt to solidify the military’s grip on power. A U.N. expert has branded the vote as a charade designed to rebrand continued military rule. The elections are expected to be widely boycotted.
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