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Myanmars Junta Push for Power: A Sham Election Amidst Ongoing Violence In a controversial move, Myanmars junta leader Min Aung Hlaing urges voters to choose candidates favorable to the military, ahead of this weekends general election. The poll, divided into two phases, is limited to 202 of 330 townships under military control, with no dates set for a third phase or results. Analysts warn this is a bid to secure power through ballots, following struggles in the civil war. The military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party leads, while Aung San Suu Kyis National League for Democracy remains banned. Ongoing violence from ethnic armies and rebels sets this election apart from past managed polls. Despite international calls for free elections, the junta pushes for legitimacy, deepening Myanmars crisis.

Myanmars military government is holding its first general election since the 2021 coup, with nearly 5,000 candidates from six national parties and 51 regional parties competing. However, the elections legitimacy is questioned due to the militarys history of disregarding past votes and dissolving the main opposition party. The election is also taking place amidst ongoing civil war, with voting limited to 202 of 333 townships. The military will appoint 25% of the parliamentary seats, and the world awaits to see if this vote will bring any changes on the ground.

In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, the Jewish settler outpost Or Meir faces accusations of land grabs and violence, with record settler attacks and new approvals for settlements. Despite demolitions, outposts often reappear and gain official status, fracturing Palestinian areas and deepening tensions.

Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, aiming to lead his party to victory in the upcoming February 12th elections. His homecoming, set for Thursday, is expected to draw millions of supporters and marks a significant moment in the countrys political landscape. Despite facing convictions under the previous government, Rahmans clearance paved the way for his return. The election is set to be a tense affair, with the BNP leading in polls but the Awami League warning of potential unrest.

Russian forces conducted a swift raid in Ukraines Sumy region, capturing 65 civilians and soldiers, including elderly residents and children. This unprecedented operation, which violated international law, saw detainees transported to Russia. Meanwhile, fighting persists in the region, with over 32,000 civilians, including 604 children, refusing to evacuate. The fate of those taken to Russia remains uncertain, causing distress and raising concerns about the human toll of the conflict.

Australian man, Martin Glynn, arrested for supporting Bondi attackers; found with weapons, ammunition, and bomb-making materials; charged with racial harassment and weapon offenses; community members tip led to swift police action; PM Albanese condemns antisemitism; Glynn claims to be a doomsday prepper, denies harm intent; investigation ongoing.

Supreme Court blocks Trumps National Guard deployment in Chicago, citing lack of evidence for rebellion. Lower courts had previously halted the deployment, with three conservative justices dissenting. The ruling is a victory for states and communities wary of federal agents and military patrols on local streets. Tensions remain high at ICE facilities and in other cities where similar battles are ongoing.

Guineas coup leader, Mamady Doumbouya, is poised to win the presidential election this Sunday, following a wave of coups in West and Central Africa. With a new constitution extending the presidential term and key opponents in exile, Doumbouya faces a weak field of challengers. The launch of the Simandou iron ore mine, majority-owned by China, has boosted his popularity and resource nationalism. Despite concerns over civil liberties and press freedom, campaigns have remained peaceful, and West Africas ECOWAS bloc is sending observers.