Beyond the ‘Sham’ Tag: Myanmar’s First Phase Polls Signal Hope for Stability
Contrary to prevailing media narratives, the December 28, 2025, elections in Myanmar represented a significant step towards stability for a nation plagued by civil war for the last three years. Despite widespread skepticism branding the polls as a sham, these elections were marked by meticulous planning and a successful execution of Phase 1 of the national elections.
Key Highlights of Phase 1 Elections:
– Incident-Free Voting: Apart from minor electronic voting machine (EVM) breakdowns, the election day saw no major disruptions.
– High Voter Participation: Over 60% of eligible voters participated, demonstrating a robust interest in the electoral process.
– International Oversight: The elections were monitored by international observers and representatives from various foreign diplomatic missions, providing a layer of credibility.
These elections had been dismissed in advance by certain Western media as rigged and undemocratic, yet firsthand observations indicate an organized process aimed at inclusivity and maximum ethnic representation.
The Path Toward Stability in Myanmar
In contrast to the current regional and global security climate—heightened by turmoil in neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Nepal—Myanmar’s elections signify a cautious hope for stability. Scheduled elections in February 2026 in Bangladesh and potential political shifts in Nepal following their elections in March 2026 underline the chaotic backdrop against which Myanmar is attempting to carve out a path forward.
During a briefing, the Chairman of the Election Commission asserted that the election’s goal is to foster a credible multi-party democratic process. While the current elections remain bound to the parameters set by the 2008 Constitution, there are noteworthy adjustments:
– Voting Methodology: Transitioning from traditional paper-based ballots to standardized Myanmar Electronic Voting Machines (MEVMs) designed for enhanced security.
– Electoral Systems:
– The First Past the Post (FPTP) system remains for the Pyithu Hluttaw (House of Representatives).
– A Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) system was introduced for the upper house (Amyotha Hluttaw) and the State & Regional Hluttaws. This balanced approach combines the decisiveness of FPTP with the inclusiveness of proportional representation, allowing smaller parties to gain representation.
This phased approach includes three segments:
– Phase 1: 102 townships (already completed)
– Phase 2: 100 townships (held on January 11, 2026)
– Phase 3: Scheduled for January 25, 2026, covering 56-63 townships.
In total, elections are planned for 692 out of 833 constituencies, with a voter base of 24.26 million eligible voters and 57 political parties participating, encompassing 4,863 candidates.
Efforts were made to ensure transparency:
– Voter lists were widely publicized and displayed at each polling location.
– The Myanmar Election Commission accredited 24 domestic and 162 international observers, highlighting a commitment to credibility and openness.
As an invited independent observer by the Union Election Commission, I witnessed Phase 1 across six constituencies in Nay Pyi Taw. From the opening of polling stations to the digital counting of votes in front of observers, the processes appeared secure and efficient. It became clear that many citizens expressed a genuine sense of hope for peace amidst their participation in the electoral process.
A Long Road Ahead
Conversations within Myanmar’s National Defence and Security Council, led by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, suggest a realization that elections must be viewed as the initial stride towards long-term stability and inclusive governance. Preliminary engagements with significant ethnic groups signal a willingness to embark on a cooperative political journey.
For India, a stable Myanmar holds strategic implications, enhancing regional security. Following Phase 2 on January 11, the reported increase in voter turnout coupled with rising violence underlines the complexities of the evolving political landscape.
In conclusion, while uncertainties remain, it is essential for India to adopt a patient and observant approach, engaging all political factions to maintain constructive relations with the current government in Myanmar.