Social media questions the legitimacy of Myanmar’s new junta-led parliament

Mizzima

A major topic of discussion on Myanmar’s social media this week is the new parliament formed by the military-backed government following an election that has been widely criticized for not being free or fair.

The new parliament recently held its first session in Naypyitaw, with the military-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) dominating most seats.

During the session, Khin Yi was elected as the Speaker of the Lower House, while former General Aung Lin Dwe became the Speaker of the Upper House. Both are members of the military-backed USDP and were elected without any opposition.

On social media, numerous users questioned the legitimacy of the new parliament and the election that created it.

“No country recognizes this election, but they are already forming a parliament,” one Facebook user wrote.

“This is not a parliament of the people, it’s just the military changing clothes,” another user commented.

“They didn’t allow real parties to compete, so how can this represent the public?” asked another.

Others pointed out that the everyday struggles faced by the people remain unchanged despite the new political structure.

“People are struggling with fuel, electricity, and prices. The parliament doesn’t change anything,” one user lamented.

The new parliament marks the first session since the 2021 coup, but with the military and its allied party controlling the majority of seats, many observers argue that it signifies a continuation of military rule rather than a transition to democracy.