Military-backed party secures Myanmar election win with opposition excluded

Myanmar’s military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party has claimed victory in the country's first election since the army seized power in 2021. The win was expected after major opposition parties were excluded and dissent was restricted. The election was held in three phases due to armed conflict. Of 330 townships, 67 did not participate, reducing the parliamentary seats. More than 4,800 candidates from 57 parties competed, though only six contested nationwide. Critics say the polls were neither free nor fair. Final results are expected later this week, with the military likely maintaining control.