“The military coup of February 1, 2021, marked a rupture in Myanmar’s fragile democratic transition, abruptly ending a decade-long experiment with quasi-civilian rule.”

“In the early hours of the morning, the armed forces detained State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint, and other senior leaders of the National League for Democracy (NLD), alleging electoral irregularities in the 2020 polls with the claims widely dismissed by international observers.”

“Power was swiftly consolidated under Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who declared a state of emergency and transferred authority to the military command.”

“Official figures released by the military authorities suggest an overall voter turnout of roughly 54–55%, with phase-wise participation at around 52% in the first phase, 55% in the second, and over 56% in the final round.”

“Myanmar’s new Parliament started its session in March 2026 after a gap of more than five years. The Lower House (Pyithu Hluttaw) convened on March 16. The Upper House (Amyotha Hluttaw) followed on March 18 whereas regional and State Assemblies met on March 20.”

“The 2008-Constitution ensured that the military retained decisive power through its guaranteed parliamentary seats, control over key Ministries, and its ability to intervene at will constitutionally.”

“The 2025–26 election extends this logic into a far more oppressive environment. Major Opposition forces have been excluded. Large parts of the country, where the military’s authority is contested or absent, did not meaningfully participate. The military-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) emerged as the principal winner, reportedly securing over 231 of the 330 contested seats in the Lower House (Pyithu Hluttaw) and 108 seats in Upper House(Amyotha Hluttaw), thereby consolidating the State Administration Council’s grip on political institutions.”