Newshour Myanmar: first elections since military coup
Dec 27, 2025
Wan Tan, Editor of the BBC Burmese service, shares critical insights on Myanmar’s upcoming elections following the military coup. He discusses the oppressive electoral environment, public apathy, and humanitarian crises affecting millions. Tinza Shunlei-Yi, a Burmese resistance figure in exile, explains why they deem the elections a sham and highlights the rise of new resistance leaders. Rashid Abdi analyzes the geopolitical implications of Somaliland's recognition by Israel, tying it to regional security in the Red Sea.
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Elections Are Staged And Repressive
- Myanmar's staged election is limited, repressive and won't cover many conflict areas, making it non-representative.
- Wan Tan says the regime uses harsh election-protection laws to suppress debate and project legitimacy to outsiders.
Millions Excluded From Voting
- Large parts of Myanmar cannot hold polls because civil war and armed groups control territory.
- Wan Tan notes millions will be excluded and candidates cannot safely campaign in many areas.
Don’t Rush To Recognise The Vote
- International actors should treat this vote skeptically and avoid legitimation without verification.
- Wan Tan warns China and others have influence but won't be fully impressed by a sham poll.