Referendum in Myanmar likely to solidify junta's power

Widespread rumors say the results have already been fixed to deliver an 84.6 percent vote in favor of the constitution.

Altsean Burma, a regional human rights group, said authorities instructed village officials to cast "Yes" votes on behalf of people who did not turn up at polling stations by 1 p.m.

Aye Aye Mar, a 36-year-old housewife, looked frightened when asked if she thought anyone would vote "No."

Her eyes darted around to see if anyone was watching, and then she whispered, "One vote of 'No' will not make a difference." Then she raised her voice. "I'm saying 'Yes' to the constitution."

Min Lwin, 40, made it clear that he did not believe his vote counted.

"What choice do I have?" he said, before quickly walking away.

Polling stations closed at 4 p.m., but a final count was not expected for two weeks. It is not clear when the results will be out.

Balloting took place across most of the country but was put off until May 24 in the areas most stricken by Cyclone Nargis a week ago -including the biggest city, Yangon.

There are estimates that more than 1 million people may have been affected by the cyclone, which submerged entire villages and left many people homeless.

The junta has so far allowed in only material assistance and has rejected the large-scale presence of foreign relief workers who have capabilities that Myanmar lacks to cope with the disaster.