<span style="color: #222222;">Pro-democracy activists in Myanmar are holding a silent strike to mark two years since a military coup. Protesters have urged the public to remain indoors and for businesses to close for Wednesday's anniversary.<br />''<br />''The call came as the UK, US, Canada and Australia announced fresh sanctions against army-linked firms. The military has said the country is facing unusual circumstances – prompting fresh doubt over its pledge to hold an election this year.<br />''<br />''Images showed deserted streets in major cities, including the commercial centre of Yangon. Protesters also gathered outside Myanmar embassies in Thailand and Japan, chanting anti-military slogans and holding portraits of jailed democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.<br />''<br />''A small pro-military demonstration took place in Yangon, where an estimated 200 supporters marched through the city centre, escorted part of the way by soldiers, news reports said.</span><br />