Myanmar on resumed voting Sunday in the second round of its first general election in five years, expanding polling to additional townships, including some areas affected by the civil war between the military government and its armed opponents.

Polling stations opened at 6am in about 100 townships, including parts of Sagaing, Magway, Mandalay, Bago and Tanintharyi regions, as well as Mon, Shan, Kachin, Kayah and Kayin states. Several of these areas have recently seen clashes or remain under tight security, highlighting the risks surrounding the vote.

The election is being conducted in three phases because of ongoing fighting. The first round was held on Dec 28 in 102 townships, while the final phase is scheduled for Jan 25. Voting will not take place in 65 townships due to security concerns.

Myanmar’s bicameral parliament has 664 seats, with the military guaranteed 25% under the constitution. A parliamentary majority allows a party to choose the president and form a government.

Although more than 4,800 candidates from 57 parties are contesting seats, only six parties are competing nationwide. Results from the first phase showed the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) winning nearly 90% of contested lower-house seats, as well as majorities in regional legislatures. Authorities claimed a turnout of about 52% in the first round.

Critics, including the United Nations, argue the polls lack credibility, citing the detention of more than 22,000 political prisoners, the exclusion of opposition parties and the imprisonment of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Rights groups warn that harsh new election laws and ongoing violence undermine any claim of a free or fair vote.