Myanmar
On March 16, 2026, Myanmar's newly elected parliament convened for the first time in over five years under tight military control, following elections boycotted by key opposition parties. The military, which seized power in 2021 and nullified a previous parliament, now holds nearly 90% of parliamentary seats. The elections held in late 2025 and early 2026 were criticized domestically and internationally as undemocratic, with major parties like the National League for Democracy barred or refusing to participate.
At the inaugural lower house session in Naypyitaw, Khin Yi, a former general and close ally of military leader Min Aung Hlaing, was elected speaker. Maung Maung Ohn became deputy speaker. The military-drafted constitution reserves 25% of seats for the military, and the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party won most of the rest.
Opposition figures, including those in an unofficial shadow parliament, condemned the new legislature as illegitimate. Questions persist over whether Min Aung Hlaing will assume the presidency, potentially requiring him to step down as military commander-in-chief. Meanwhile, former civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains jailed under charges seen as politically motivated.
Myanmar's political landscape has been tumultuous since the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The coup led to widespread protests and a subsequent crackdown by the military, resulting in numerous arrests and allegations of human rights abuses.
The recent elections, held in phases during late 2025 and early 2026, were marred by controversy. Major opposition parties, including the National League for Democracy (NLD), were either barred from participating or chose to boycott the elections, citing unfair conditions and lack of transparency. International observers and human rights organizations have criticized the elections as neither free nor fair.
The convening of the new parliament marks a significant step in the military's efforts to legitimize its rule. However, with the military and its allies holding the majority of seats, the parliament is unlikely to serve as a check on military power. The election of Khin Yi as speaker and Maung Maung Ohn as deputy speaker further consolidates military control over the legislative process.
The international community has expressed concern over the developments in Myanmar. Sanctions have been imposed by several countries in response to the military's actions, and calls for the release of political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi, continue. The legitimacy of the new parliament is widely questioned, and the situation remains a focal point for international human rights organizations.
The establishment of a military-dominated parliament raises concerns about the future of democracy in Myanmar. The exclusion of major opposition parties and the consolidation of power by the military suggest a continuation of authoritarian rule. The ongoing detention of political figures and suppression of dissent indicate that the path to democratic governance remains fraught with challenges.
As Myanmar navigates this complex political landscape, the resilience of its civil society and the response of the international community will play crucial roles in shaping the country's future.
