(Jan 11): Voters in war-torn Myanmar queued up on Sunday to cast their ballots in the second stage of a military-run election, following low turnout in the initial round of polls that have been widely criticised as a tool to formalise junta rule. Transition promisedThe junta has said the election will bring political stability and a better future for the country, which is facing one of the most serious humanitarian crises in Asia. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing last month sidestepped a question from a reporter about his political ambitions. He hailed the election as a success during a visit last week to central Myanmar township, where he urged authorities to work to further boost turnout. "In phase one of the election, a large number of votes were cast, showing that the people have a strong desire to participate in the democratic process," state media quoted him as saying.

Source: The Edge Markets January 11, 2026 01:58 UTC