Growing Unrest and Voter Apathy Mark Final Phase of Myanmar Junta Election
Myanmar’s military junta has pushed forward with the final phase of its national election amid widespread unrest, armed clashes and notably low voter turnout, raising serious questions about the credibility of the poll.
Eyewitness accounts from several townships indicate that turnout remained thin as many citizens chose to stay away from polling stations, reflecting deep scepticism about an election widely perceived as designed to extend military control. In numerous areas, security forces and allied militias were heavily present around voting centres, yet voters were sparse, and in some locations polling activity was minimal.
In parts of the country where armed conflict persists, resistance groups clashed with junta forces, obstructing the opening of polling stations and delaying or cancelling voting. In regions affected by violence, formal voting was reported to be nearly impossible, contributing further to low participation.
Political analysts say the combination of voter apathy, insecurity and barriers to genuine competition has undermined the election’s claim to legitimacy. With major opposition parties barred from contesting and many citizens openly rejecting the process, observers say the final phase appears aimed more at consolidating junta power than at reflecting the public will.
As the voting concludes, international and domestic critics are watching closely to see whether the election outcomes will be accepted broadly, or whether the polls will deepen Myanmar’s ongoing political crisis.
