North Korea’s ruling bloc claims 99.93% of votes with 99.99% turnout; new assembly to formalise leadership and consider constitutional changes
New Delhi: North Korea has announced an overwhelming electoral victory for its ruling bloc in the latest parliamentary elections, with official figures claiming 99.93 percent of votes in favour of candidates backed by the regime. The polls, held on March 15 for the 11th Supreme People’s Assembly, also recorded a reported voter turnout of 99.99 percent, according to state media.
The newly elected assembly is expected to convene soon in Pyongyang for its first session, where key leadership roles will be formalised. Reports from the Korean Central News Agency indicate that discussions will also include proposed amendments and additions to the country’s socialist constitution, suggesting possible adjustments to the existing governance structure.
Elections in North Korea are widely viewed by international observers as tightly controlled exercises rather than competitive democratic processes. Each constituency typically features a single state-approved candidate, leaving voters with little to no alternative choice.
The Supreme People’s Assembly itself is largely seen as endorsing decisions already determined by the central leadership, rather than acting as an independent legislative body. The outcome once again reflects the firm control maintained by the ruling establishment over the country’s political system.
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