The election announcement came amid a turbulent backdrop of civil war, with the military struggling to manage increasing opposition forces. While over 50 political parties registered for the election, the prominent National League for Democracy (NLD) party, which enjoyed significant electoral success prior to the coup, has been banned from participating. The military claims the election will be "free and fair," but critics argue it serves primarily as a mechanism to legitimize the junta's rule.

Despite logistical challenges posed by the civil conflict — particularly in areas controlled by insurgent groups unwilling to facilitate voting — the junta insists that the elections will proceed. They have issued threats against opposition voices and dissenters while finding support for the elections from neighboring China, which prioritizes regional stability.

Human rights advocates and international organizations, including the UN, caution against recognizing the legitimacy of this electoral process, describing it as a "mirage of an election exercise" that distracts from the need for true democratic reforms. With thousands of lives lost in the wake of the coup and a humanitarian crisis deepening within Myanmar, observers remain skeptical about the junta's intent and the elections' potential for credible outcomes.