Myanmar's Military Holds Elections Amidst Civil War, Critics Call it a Sham

• Myanmar's military-led administration is holding multi-phased general elections starting December 28, despite an ongoing civil war.
• The military, which ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in a 2021 coup, aims to entrench its rule and gain legitimacy through these polls.
• Elections are not nationwide, covering 265 out of 330 townships, and many opposition parties, including NLD, have been dissolved or refused to participate.
• 25% of parliamentary seats are reserved for the military, ensuring its influence over government formation and presidential selection.
• UN, Western countries, and human rights groups condemn the election as a sham, while China, Russia, and India support it.

Why It Matters: Myanmar's military holds elections amidst civil war to legitimize its rule, facing international criticism.