Myanmar's military charges hundreds with breaking election law as voting date nears

Myanmar's military government has charged over 200 people with violating the country's strict election law ahead of a general election at the end of this month. Critics argue the election, which starts on Dec 28, will not be free or fair and is meant to legitimize military rule established after a 2021 army takeover. The election will occur in three phases due to ongoing civil war. The new election law, enacted in July, imposes severe penalties, including the death penalty, for opposing the polls. The military government dismisses international criticism, stating the election is for Myanmar, not the global community.