Myanmar Elections: More Security Than Voters, Democracy Questioned Amidst Civil War

• Myanmar began multi-stage general elections amidst a five-year civil war, raising doubts about democratic return.
• Initial voting in military-controlled areas like Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw showed more security and officials than voters.
• Popular leader Aung San Suu Kyi is imprisoned with a 27-year sentence, and her party, National League for Democracy, is dissolved.
• Most parties from the 2020 elections have been dissolved or boycotted, leaving only military-approved parties, including Union Solidarity and Development Party.
• The elections are seen by human rights organizations as politically motivated and a mockery of democracy.

Why It Matters: Myanmar's elections, marked by low turnout and suppressed opposition, cast doubt on its democratic future.