Myanmar's Junta Holds Flawed Election; Millions Excluded Amid Conflict

• Myanmar's military junta is proceeding with elections starting December 28, the first since the 2021 coup, despite ongoing conflict and widespread exclusion.
• Millions of citizens, particularly in conflict zones and areas beyond junta control, will be unable to vote, with the military governing only about half the country.
• Aung San Suu Kyi's NLD and other democratic parties were dissolved or barred, leaving the military-backed USDP with limited opposition.
• Opposition activists face severe penalties under new election laws, including long prison terms or execution for alleged disruptions.
• Western governments and the UN dismiss the election as illegitimate, while China, India, and Russia urge dialogue.

Why It Matters: Junta-led elections in Myanmar exclude millions, lack legitimacy, and are unlikely to restore democracy.