Burma is voting in its third election in half a century — a test of its reform credentials that could propel its opposition leader into Parliament.

Burma has freed at least 200 political prisoners in an amnesty that may embolden the opposition and put pressure on the West to lift sanctions.

Burma has begun freeing jailed political activists as one of the world’s most reclusive states opens up after decades of authoritarian rule.

Burma has lifted bans on prominent news websites, including some run by critics of the army-dominated government.

The party of Burma pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi recommended on Monday maintaining Western sanctions on the country.

Burma Prime Minister Thein Sein was chosen on Friday to become the military-run country’s first civilian president in half a century.

Burma pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi began her first day of freedom in seven years on Sunday with plans for a major speech.

Burma democracy champion Aung San Suu Kyi walked out of her home to rapturous cheers from thousands of supporters on Saturday.

Aung San Suu Kyi was due to be freed from house arrest on Saturday, but there was still no sign the country’s army rulers were ready to release her.

Rumour and speculation about the imminent release of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi swept across Burma on Friday.

Burma’s main pro-democracy parties conceded defeat on Tuesday in the country’s first election in 20 years.

Burma’s military will keep its grip on power after the country’s election, backed by parties that on Monday looked set to win a controversial vote.

Burma held its first election in 20 years on Sunday under tight security, a scripted vote that assures army-backed parties an easy win.

Polls opened under tight security in Burma’s first election in 20 years on Sunday, a scripted vote that assures army-backed parties an easy win.

Burma will hold its first parliamentary poll in two decades on November 7, state media said on Friday, ending speculation over the timing of a vote.