### Myanmar's Junta Pushes Forward with Elections Amid Ongoing Civil War - Myanmar's military-led government is set to conduct a multi-phased general election starting December 28, 2025, despite the ongoing civil war that has engulfed much of the country since the military coup in February 2021. The junta claims that these elections are a step towards restoring democracy, five years after it ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, which has led to widespread violence and unrest across the nation. *However, the legitimacy of these elections is heavily questioned due to the prevailing conflict and the junta's oppressive tactics to ensure voter participation* [https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/explainer-why-is-myanmars-junta-holding-an-election-during-a-civil-war]. ### Structure of the Election Context and Implications 1. **Background of the Civil War**: The civil war in Myanmar began after the military coup in February 2021, which resulted in significant resistance from various ethnic armed groups and pro-democracy activists. The conflict has led to thousands of deaths and widespread displacement [https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2025/12/24/myanmars-election-explained-why-the-junta-is-holding-an-election-in-the-middle-of-a-civil-war/203101]. 2. **Junta's Justification for Elections**: The junta argues that the elections are a necessary step towards restoring order and democracy, despite the ongoing violence. They have framed the elections as a means to return to a civilian government, although critics argue this is merely a facade to legitimize military rule [https://www.marketscreener.com/news/why-is-myanmar-s-junta-holding-an-election-during-a-civil-war-ce7e59dadb8cf027]. 3. **International Response and Criticism**: The United Nations and various international organizations have condemned the junta's actions, citing the use of "brutal violence" to coerce citizens into voting. Reports indicate that the military is employing intimidation tactics to ensure participation in the elections [https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/world/2025/12/23/un-says-myanmar-junta-using-brutal-violence-to-force-people-to-vote]. 4. **Current Political Landscape**: Aung San Suu Kyi remains imprisoned, and her National League for Democracy (NLD) party has been effectively dismantled. The elections are expected to be heavily controlled, with significant restrictions on opposition parties and civil society [https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/myanmar-junta-stages-election-after-five-years-of-civil-war/article70428319.ece]. ### Evidence and Data Supporting the Situation - **Election Timeline**: The elections are set to begin on December 28, 2025, and will be conducted in multiple phases, with the junta urging citizens to participate despite widespread apathy and fear [https://powercorridors.in/myanmar-heads-to-polls-under-guns-apathy-and-global-rejection]. - **Human Rights Violations**: Reports indicate that the junta has been responsible for numerous human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and forced disappearances, as part of their campaign to suppress dissent and ensure compliance during the electoral process [https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/world/2025/12/23/un-says-myanmar-junta-using-brutal-violence-to-force-people-to-vote]. ### Conclusion: A Troubling Path Forward for Myanmar 1. **Elections Amidst Conflict**: The junta's decision to hold elections during an ongoing civil war raises serious questions about the legitimacy and safety of the electoral process. The military's grip on power remains strong, and the prospects for genuine democratic governance appear bleak. 2. **International Isolation**: The global community's rejection of the junta's actions and the ongoing civil unrest suggest that Myanmar's path to stability and democracy is fraught with challenges. 3. **Future Implications**: The outcome of these elections may further entrench military rule rather than pave the way for a return to democracy, as the junta continues to face significant resistance from various factions within the country [https://www.marketscreener.com/news/why-is-myanmar-s-junta-holding-an-election-during-a-civil-war-ce7e59dadb8cf027]. In summary, while the junta promotes the upcoming elections as a return to democracy, the reality on the ground reflects a nation still deeply divided and embroiled in conflict, with little hope for a peaceful resolution in the near future.