Myanmar Junta's Party Leads in First Post-Coup Election Amid Low Turnout

The military-backed party in Myanmar is leading after the first phase of a contentious general election. This is the country's first vote since the 2021 coup. Early results cited by state media show the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) ahead. The ruling junta, which seized power in 2021, organized the three-phase vote. It says the election will bring political stability. The junta reports a 52% voter turnout. Independent observers call this number low compared to past elections. The military government faces a nationwide rebellion. This conflict began after it crushed pro-democracy protests following its coup.