Myanmar is holding an election widely dismissed as a sham, with major political parties dissolved, many of their leaders jailed, and up to half the population expected to abstain due to the ongoing civil war.
The military government is conducting a phased vote nearly five years after seizing power in a coup, which triggered widespread opposition and escalated into a civil conflict.
Observers say the China-backed junta aims to legitimise and cement its rule while seeking a way out of the stalemate.
More than 200 people have been charged under a new law for disrupting or opposing the polls, which carries severe penalties, including the death sentence.
Polling began on Sunday amid reports of explosions and airstrikes across multiple regions.
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