Myanmar is holding its first general election in five years amidst controversy and a civil war. The military junta claims the election signals a return to multi-party democracy, but opponents, including the dissolved National League for Democracy, call it a sham designed to maintain military rule. Large areas of the country are not under military control, meaning many citizens will not be able to vote. While much of the international community has condemned the election, China, India, and Russia have expressed support.