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Myanmar Convenes Military-Dominated Parliament for First Time Since 2021 Coup

A USDP-led chamber born of contested elections sets up a presidential vote widely expected to elevate Min Aung Hlaing.

Overview

  • USDP chairman and retired brigadier-general Khin Yi was elected speaker of the lower house as the new legislature opened in Naypyitaw.
  • The military-drafted constitution reserves 25% of seats for officers, and the USDP won 81% of contested seats, giving junta-aligned forces near-total control.
  • Min Aung Hlaing is viewed as the frontrunner for president, though the charter prohibits a president from simultaneously serving as commander-in-chief.
  • A five-member Union Consultative Council is slated to be formed, which analysts say could let Min Aung Hlaing retain influence over both civilian and military administration.
  • An opposition shadow parliament held an online session claiming sole legitimacy, as many Western governments and ASEAN rejected the election as a sham.