Myanmar's Controversial Election: Stability or Illusion?

Myanmar's initial election round, amid low turnout and international criticism, aims for stability post-2021 coup. With the National League for Democracy banned, military-backed parties lead. Junta claims future stability, though fighting continues across the nation, creating a severe humanitarian crisis. UN envoy dismisses vote as non-credible.

Under the cloud of civil unrest and questions about its legitimacy, Myanmar concluded the initial phase of its general election on Sunday. The first polls since the 2021 coup saw a noticeably low voter turnout.

The ruling junta, which suppressed pro-democracy protests post-coup and triggered widespread rebellion, declared the vote a key to political stability for the impoverished Southeast Asian nation. International bodies, however, have criticized the election, calling it neither free nor fair, as anti-junta parties are excluded, and criticism of the elections is criminalized.

With Aung San Suu Kyi's party dissolved following her arrest, and the military-affiliated Union Solidarity and Development Party poised to dominate, the scenario underscores a tumultuous political landscape. Armed conflicts continue to displace millions, worsening the humanitarian crisis despite junta claims of a 'better future.'

(With inputs from agencies.)