North Korea cites rare dissent in elections even as 99% back candidates

North Korea's recent elections saw a rare mention of dissenting votes, although analysts believe it is merely an attempt to portray a normal society rather than a meaningful increase in rights. The authoritarian state, known for its highly controlled society, has leader Kim Jong Un accused of using patronage and repression to maintain absolute power. The elections for regional people's assemblies resulted in 0.09% and 0.13% of votes against the selected candidates for provincial and city councils, respectively.