CNI News
11 January 2026
In the midst of the ongoing 2025 General Election in Myanmar, observers are closely watching to see what kind of candidate Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, wants voters to support.
On January 9, 2026, while meeting with officers, soldiers, and their families at the Hainggyikyun Cantonment under the Southwest Command, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing highlighted specific criteria to consider when casting ballots.
The Senior General stated: “When casting your votes, you must choose and vote for those who can promote the interests of the region and the State; those who can promote the interests of Race and Religion; those who can uphold and safeguard 'Our Three Main National Causes'; those who possess political, administrative, economic, security, and rule of law perspectives; and those who can work hand-in-hand with the Tatmadaw, which remains the strongest institution as long as the State exists.”
Political observers point out that based on these criteria, the Senior General may be indirectly campaigning for the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) and its candidates.
Election Progress and Results
Currently, Phase 1 of the Myanmar election was held on December 28, 2025, in 102 townships. The USDP won all seats in the Yangon Region and Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory. Nationwide, the USDP has reportedly secured 80% of the seats contested so far.
Regarding the results, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing said: “The results of Phase 1 have been announced transparently for all citizens to know. Based on our past experiences, we find that our country still lacks true politicians who wish to carry out national affairs with deep seriousness.”
Upcoming Election Phases The election continues in the following stages:
Phase 2: To be held on January 11, 2026, in 100 townships.
Phase 3: To be held on January 25, 2026, in 63 townships.
Controversies and Integrity In Phase 1, the USDP won the majority of seats primarily through advance votes. Consequently, some political parties have sent formal letters to both Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and the Union Election Commission (UEC) regarding the issue of advance voting.
In response to concerns, the Senior General stated that they are striving to ensure the election is free, fair, and impartial, aimed at creating a dignified parliament(Hluttaw).
