Myanmar junta holds second phase of election amid wide criticism.

Voters cast ballots in the second stage of a military-run election that the UN, many Western countries and rights groups have described as not free or credible; a final voting round is scheduled for 25 January.

Voters queued to cast ballots in the second stage of a military-run election in Myanmar. The vote follows the 2021 coup in which the military removed the civilian government. The National League for Democracy and dozens of other opposition parties did not take part, and some armed groups refused to participate. The United Nations, many Western governments and human rights groups have said the election is not free, fair or credible. Key facts: - The second phase of voting took place while the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party led after the first phase, winning 90 of the 102 lower house seats contested in that round. - Junta officials praised turnout and described the election as successful in public statements. - International actors including the UN and many Western countries and rights groups said the vote lacked a meaningful opposition and therefore could not be considered free, fair or credible. - A final round of voting is scheduled for 25 January, with ballots planned in 265 of Myanmar’s 330 townships. Summary: Analysts say the junta’s attempt to form a stable administration amid ongoing conflict faces significant challenges and is unlikely to gain broad international recognition. A final round is scheduled for 25 January; the broader outcome and international response remain undetermined at this time.