Myanmar holds second round of voting in first general election since military takeover

Myanmar began a second round of voting Sunday in 100 townships in its first general election since the 2021 military takeover; a final round is scheduled for Jan. 25 and 65 townships will not vote because of fighting.

Myanmar began a second round of voting on Sunday in its first general election since the military seized power in 2021. Polling expanded to 100 townships, including some areas affected by ongoing armed conflict. Authorities opened polling stations at 6 a.m. local time in parts of Sagaing, Magway, Mandalay and several states. The election is being held in three phases because fighting prevents voting in some areas. Key facts: - Voting opened Sunday in 100 townships with polling stations reported to have opened at 6 a.m. local time. - The first phase was held Dec. 28 in 102 townships; a final round is scheduled for Jan. 25. - Sixty-five townships will not take part in the final round because of ongoing fighting. - Critics and a U.N. human rights rapporteur have questioned the credibility of the polls, while authorities reported several million ballots cast in the first phase. Summary: The vote is proceeding in stages amid conflict-related disruptions and restrictions, with a final round set for Jan. 25. Undetermined at this time.