Iran Press/Asia: The vote is being seen as a contest between the country's junta leader who wants to stay on as the elected leader and a "democratic front" of anti-junta parties.
About 51.4 million people are eligible to vote in the election, which analysts say is likely to be inconclusive and could usher in a new phase of political instability in Thailand, according to Thai media.
More than 93,000 polling stations in 77 provinces will be open until 5 p.m. (1000 GMT). The election commission has said the first unofficial results will be available three hours after voting ends. 104/211/213
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