Cyclone casts a pall over constitutional vote

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Generally, though, the mood among would-be voters is one of confusion and resignation — and at least a touch of cynicism.

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

"I cannot be bothered to vote, knowing the outcome of the referendum, which is going to be an overwhelming 'yes,'" said a member of Yangon's Chamber of Commerce who refused to give his name because he was afraid of being called in by the authorities.

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Some feel that voting for the constitution may be desirable because the alternative is worse.

"I will vote yes for constitution because the authorities said that if we do not say yes, the military will stay in power for a long time," said a resident of the northeastern city of Taunggyi.

In Yangon, indifference to the vote is common.

"That is the least of my concerns. I wake up every morning planning where to get water and when to start queuing for gasoline," said Nyi Nyi, a 45-year-old office worker.

Khin Maung Than, a 45-year-old pedicab driver whose house and vehicle were crushed by a tree in the storm, said he was "preoccupied trying to put my life back together."

"My family is now staying at the monastery. I have no means to repair the house. And I have no means to earn a living as well. And I don't know how to feed my family of three young children," he said.