Musharraf Lifts Emergency Rule

Curbs remain on media, and some lawyers and judges still under house arrest
By Mary Papenfuss,  Newser Staff
Posted Dec 15, 2007 7:01 AM CST
Musharraf Lifts Emergency Rule
Pakistan's former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto speaks to reporters upon her arrival at Quetta, Pakistan after President Pervez Musharraf lifted a six-week-old state of emergency and restored the constitution, drawing cautious praise from some critics and condemnation from others who say he has skewed...   (Associated Press)

Pakistan's President Pervez Musharraf today lifted the state of emergency he imposed in his nation, sending crowds into the street to celebrate the change and protest Musharraf's administration. Critics say media curbs and an altered judiciary, with some judges and lawyers under house arrest, will remain in place and that Musharraf can still manipulate  January elections.

"More needs to be done for the restoration of democracy," said opposition leader and former prime minister Benazir Bhutto. Citing violence from Islamic militants and an obstructionist judiciary, Musharraf imposed emergency rule November 3, suspending the constitution and purging the Supreme Court to stave off challenges to his re-election. (More Pakistan stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X