The Union Election Commission announced on September 23 that a total of 4,963 candidates from 57 political parties and several independents have registered to contest the upcoming multi-party general election, scheduled to begin on December 28, 2025.

The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) submitted the highest number of candidates — 1,018 — across all levels of parliament. The National Unity Party followed with 694 candidates, while the People’s Pioneer Party ranked third with 672 candidates. Other major contenders include the Farmers Development Party with 428 candidates and the Shan and Ethnic Democratic Party (White Tiger Party) with 584 candidates.

In total, six nationwide parties, 51 state and regional parties, and independent candidates will take part. Independent candidates alone submitted 95 nominations.

The commission stated that candidate scrutiny will continue from September 23 to October 4, 2025.