Myanmar Parliament Convenes Under Military Control

Myanmar's parliament convened on Monday, March 16, for the first time since a 2021 coup, marking a nominal return to democracy with the military retaining significant control. This follows a recent election where the army-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) secured 81% of available seats amid low voter turnout and a lack of viable opposition.

USDP chairman and retired brigadier-general Khin Yi was elected as the lower house speaker. The military's substantial representation, including a constitutional allocation of a quarter of legislative seats, ensures its effective control over the legislature. This structure is expected to allow the military to determine the presidency, with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing widely anticipated to assume the role.

Western countries have largely dismissed the election as a maneuver to legitimize military rule, which has been in place since the coup against Aung San Suu Kyi's government. A new five-member Union Consultative Council, described by some experts as a "superbody," is also planned to further consolidate Min Aung Hlaing's control over both military and civilian administration. The junta maintains the election reflects the will of the people and anticipates eased sanctions and increased international engagement.