Myanmar Holds Election Amidst Criticism: Military Rule Questioned

• Myanmar begins its first general election in five years on Sunday, facing strong criticism from human rights and opposition groups.
• Critics argue the vote is a military facade to legitimize its 2021 coup, not a step towards restoring democracy or ending the civil war.
• Aung San Suu Kyi and her party are not participating; many parties are boycotting, and opposition groups urge voters to abstain.
• The pro-military Union Solidarity and Development Party is expected to dominate, likely solidifying Senior General Min Aung Hlaing's power.
• The election unfolds amidst intensified violence, repression, over 22,000 political prisoners, and a severe humanitarian crisis.

Why It Matters: Myanmar's election is widely seen as a military-orchestrated move to legitimize its rule, not a democratic transition.