Pakistan May Crack Down on Freedoms

The Pakistani government may declare a state of emergency, which would grant it extraordinary powers, limit civil liberties and extend the political lifespan of embattled President Gen. Pervez Musharraf.

BBC:

Tariq Azeem conceded that the issue was being discussed, as Pakistani TV channels reported that a declaration state of emergency was imminent.

An emergency would limit the role of the courts, restrict civil liberties and curb freedom of expression.

Earlier, Pakistan’s president said he would not attend a tribal council in Afghanistan on combating the Taleban.

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news.bbc.co.uk

Under fire: Protesters burn an image of President Musharraf in 2006. His reign has been challenged recently by mounting unpopularity.