Musharraf warns against street protests

Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf warned opposition parties to accept the result of Monday's parliamentary elections and not to take to the streets if it goes against them, while guaranteeing it will be free and fair.

"They should not be under any illusion that they will bring people to the streets after the election. Nothing of that sort will be allowed," Musharraf said in comments telecast yesterday on state-run television.

"In this situation of extremism and terrorism, no agitation, anarchy or chaos can be acceptable."

Musharraf, who came to power as a general in a 1999 coup, quit as army chief in November after securing a second five-year term in circumstances his foes describe as unconstitutional.

Monday's vote is for a new National Assembly and provincial assemblies.

Opposition parties have threatened to launch street protests if they believe the vote has been rigged. Although Musharraf is not up for re-election, he needs a commanding majority in the legislature to block any move to impeach him. More AFP

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