Khin Maung Win / AP

Aung San Suu Kyi, left, signs documents as she submits a candidates' list of her National League for Democracy for the upcoming parliamentary by-election at the Yangon District Election Commission on Jan. 18, 2012, in Yangon, Myanmar.

The Associated Press reports from THANLYIN, Myanmar: 

Ecstatic cheers of "Long Live Aung San Suu Kyi!" echoed through the streets of this impoverished Yangon suburb Wednesday as she registered for elections, a sign of how vastly Myanmar has changed since the junta gave up power after decades of iron-fisted rule.

Throngs of flag-waving supporters crowded the local election office to shout support and glimpse the 66-year-old Nobel Peace laureate, who became Myanmar's most recognizable face during years of house arrest under authoritarian rule.

The scene would have been unthinkable while the junta still ruled. It despised Suu Kyi because of her popularity and any public support for her was swiftly and firmly halted. Continue reading.

Soe Than Win / AFP - Getty Images

Aung San Suu Kyi waves to supporters as she leaves the Thanlyin township election commission office on Jan. 18, 2012.

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