Myanmar has entered the final stage of its tightly controlled national election, with early results indicating that a party closely aligned with the ruling military junta is set to secure an overwhelming victory.

Voting in the last phase took place in remaining constituencies across the country, completing a three-round electoral process organised by the military authorities. The election is the first nationwide vote since the army seized power in a 2021 coup that removed the elected civilian government.

So far, the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party has dominated the earlier rounds, winning the majority of contested seats. With the final vote now underway, analysts say the outcome is unlikely to change, effectively guaranteeing the party control of parliament.

Under Myanmar’s constitution, the military already holds 25 per cent of parliamentary seats without an election, giving it decisive influence over the formation of government. This arrangement, combined with the strong showing of its allied party, ensures the armed forces will retain power even after the vote.

Opposition groups and international observers have strongly criticised the election, describing it as neither free nor fair. Major opposition parties, including those linked to former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, were barred from participating, while voting was cancelled in many conflict-hit areas.

Myanmar has been gripped by violence and political unrest since the coup, with fighting between the military and armed resistance groups continuing in several regions. Rights organisations say these conditions have made meaningful participation impossible for millions of citizens.

Despite the criticism, the military leadership insists the election is a step toward restoring stability and civilian rule. Final results are expected to be announced in the coming days, paving the way for the formation of a new government dominated by junta allies.