Sparse turnout reported as Yangon voting centres remain vacant

Mizzima

Polling stations across Myanmar’s commercial capital remained largely deserted on Sunday during the first phase of the military-led general election, as widespread public indifference and an overwhelming security presence defined the day’s proceedings.

On-the-ground reporting from Mizzima found that key constituencies in Botahtaung, Kyauktada, Thingangyun, and Thanlyin townships remained quiet throughout the day. While polls opened at 6 am, locals observed that residential areas and streets without polling stations were notably busier than the voting centers themselves. In several townships, some stations reportedly saw as few as four to ten voters between opening and 2 pm.

“There are more police officers near the polling stations than voters,” a resident of Botahtaung Township told Mizzima. “When I look inside, I see no one. None of my friends went to vote. They’re holding this fake election, so no one cares.”

In Thingangyun Township, administrative officials were seen making a late-afternoon push to encourage turnout, informing residents they could cast ballots directly at ward administrator offices. Meanwhile, in Mayangone Township where Union Minister of Health and USDP candidate Dr. Thet Khaing Win is running residents reported a heavy deployment of approximately 30 security personnel, including military and plainclothes officers, stationed in front of polling sites.