Myanmar military-backed party extends lead before final election round

Myanmar’s military-backed political party extended its lead after the second round of voting, official figures from the country’s election body showed on Friday, leaving it on track for a parliamentary majority as the country heads into the final phase of its three-stage general election amid widespread conflict.

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Supporters of the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party dance during an election campaign in Wundwin town, Mandalay region, Myanmar on Jan. 7.

(AP)

Critics, including human rights and opposition groups, say the polls are neither free nor fair and are an effort by the military to legitimize its rule after seizing power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. The takeover triggered widespread opposition that has grown into a civil war.