Myanmar's ruling junta is conducting a three-phase election, with the first phase held in 102 townships. This process is criticized as a sham, lacking legitimacy as it aims to impose favored candidates rather than reflect popular will. Major parties from the 2020 elections, including the NLD, are boycotting. The elections are proceeding in areas controlled by the junta, which faces significant challenges from ethnic armed organizations and People's Defence Forces loyal to the opposition.