The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) claimed an overwhelming victory that indicates the country's armed forces, known as the Tatmadaw, intend to preserve their grip on power. But the decision by the top brass to cloak its command in civilian dress means ceding some of junta chief Min Aung Hlaing's singular authority, analysts say. Democracy advocates and citizens complain no other party had a fighting chance in the poll -- widely criticised as a ploy to rebrand military rule. Min Aung Hlaing, meanwhile, will have to carefully manage his climbdown from ultimate authority. But staying on as armed forces chief could leave him exposed to power tussles with the new parliament and president.