SEOUL, Nov 28 (Reuters) - In a rare mention of dissenting votes in recent elections, North Korea revealed the results of Sunday's election for deputies to regional people's assemblies. However, analysts have dismissed this as an attempt by the reclusive state to portray an image of a normal society, rather than a meaningful increase in rights.

The highly controlled society of North Korea, led by Kim Jong Un, has long been criticized for its system of patronage and repression, which helps maintain Kim's absolute power. The North's state media reported that 0.09 percent and 0.13 percent of voters cast their votes against the selected candidates for the provincial and city councils, respectively.

According to the state news agency KCNA, "99.91 percent voted for the candidates for deputies to provincial people's assemblies" and "99.87 percent voted for candidates for deputies to city and county people's assemblies."

North Korea's parliament and regional councils act as mere rubber stamps for the ruling Workers' Party, with elections usually recording over 99% voter turnout. However, this month's election was notable as it marked the first time since the 1960s that the country referred to dissenting votes in local polls.

The regional election also stands as the first election since North Korea revised its election law in August, allowing for multiple candidates. However, critics argue that the portrayal of a more democratic society is primarily aimed at reinforcing the regime's legitimacy and authenticity on the global stage, particularly when compared to South Korea and the United States.

A photo released by state media depicted Kim Jong Un casting his ballot, positioned before two boxes - one in green for approval and the other in red for dissent. While this slight departure from complete unanimity may suggest a minor weakening in state control, analysts caution that discreet voting will likely remain limited, as the monitoring of ballot boxes will likely continue to be conspicuous.

The voter turnout for this election slightly decreased from 99.98% four years ago to 99.63%, indicating a potential minor weakening in state control in a country where voting is considered mandatory.

Although the acknowledgement of dissenting votes in North Korean elections is a rare occurrence, analysts remain skeptical of any meaningful change in the authoritarian state's political landscape. The tight control maintained by Pyongyang over the candidate selection process and the limited scope of dissenting votes points to the continued dominance of the ruling regime.