The Myanmar military's political proxy claimed victory today in the country's widely criticised first election in 20 years. It said,it has won about 80 per cent of the seats. The poll has been denounced by Western governments as anything but free and fair. Pro-democracy parties who participated have complained of intimidation and cheating at polling booths. The vote appeared to have gone largely according to the junta's plans but fighting erupted between government troops and ethnic rebels yesterday, triggering an exodus of about 20,000 people to neighbouring Thailand. An official in Myanmar said, at least three civilians were killed when heavy weapons fire hit the town of Myawaddy in Karen State. There was no information on any troop casualties on either side.