Myanmar is preparing for its first general election since the 2021 military coup, with voting scheduled in three phases starting Sunday. The military junta claims the polls signify a return to democracy, aiming to legitimize its rule after ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government. However, critics and human rights groups deem the election neither free nor fair, asserting that power will remain with the military. The ongoing civil war has disrupted voting in many areas, and Aung San Suu Kyi's party is not participating.