Myanmar Parliament Convenes Amid Military-Controlled Election and New Governance Body

Myanmar's parliament convened for the first time since the 2021 military coup, following an election dominated by the army-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), which won 81 seats amid low voter turnout and no viable opposition. The military, constitutionally allocated a quarter of legislative seats, maintains significant control, with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing expected to assume the presidency. A new five-member Union Consultative Council is also set to be established, further consolidating military influence despite international criticism labeling the election a sham.