Burmese general election, 1928

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Legislative Council elections were held in Burma in November 1928. Despite expectations that pro-government candidates would win,[1] the result was a victory for the opposition, which won 45 of the 80 elected seats. However, the People's Party, the largest opposition party, was unable to form a government.[2] Instead, the pro-British Golden Valley Party formed the government.[2]

Electoral system

The Legislative Council had 80 elected members, who were elected in 72 constituencies.[3] Around 55% of the adult population of the country was eligible to vote in the elections.[3] Women remained barred from standing as candidates, provoking a public protest by women at the Secretariat.[3]

Results

Opposition parties won 45 seats,[1] with the People's Party receiving the most votes.[2] Sixteen independents were elected, of whom nine were thought to be pro-opposition.[1] The pro-government parties and independents lost eight seats.[1]

Voter turnout was only 18%.[4]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 "Burmese Elections. Gains By The Opposition", The Times, 15 November 1928, p15, Issue 45051
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Here Today, Gone Tomorrow The Irrawaddy, 3 November 2009
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Simon Commission In Burma. Women And Public Life" The Times, 1 February 1929, p11, Issue 45116
  4. ↑ Robert H Taylor (2009) The State in Myanmar NUS Press, p185