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Banned politcal rallies { March 15 2000 } Original Source Link: (May no longer be active)    http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/south_asia/newsid_678000/678804.stm http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/south_asia/newsid_678000/678804.stm http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/678804.stm Wednesday, 15 March, 2000, 22:09 GMT Pakistan bans political rallies The military government in Pakistan has outlawed all outdoor political meetings, strikes and processions. It is the first ban on political activity since the military seized power in a bloodless coup last year. A statement issued after a government meeting in Islamabad said the ban would come into effect immediately. Indoor meetings will be allowed as long as loudspeakers are not used. The statement said that in the interest of Pakistan's future, it was expected that all political and religious parties would exhibit "responsible behaviour". Opposition leaders protested at the move. 'Hostile acts' The ban was imposed 10 days before President Clinton visits Pakistan, having made it clear he will call for a speedy return to democracy. The order said there were reports that elements were planning "hostile acts to create chaos and portray Pakistan as an irresponsible state". Government spokesman Javed Jabber told the BBC that Pakistan was vulnerable to subversion from its neighbour - a reference to India. Army chief General Musharraf suspended parliament and the constitution when he seized power in last October - but did not impose martial law. He has not yet made clear when Pakistan will be returned to civilian rule. Suprise move Ijaz ul-Haq, senior vice-president of the Pakistan Muslim League, the party in government at the time of the coup, said he saw the ban as a step backwards for the return to democracy. Mr Ul-Haq said he had been expecting General Musharraf would take steps towards freer political activity in the run-up to the Clinton visit. There is speculation in Pakistan that resurgent activity by the Muslim League could be one of the factors behind this clamp down. Despite the absence of such a ban after the coup, few political rallies have been held. But ousted Prime Minister Nawaz Shaif's wife Khulsoom has addressed some rallies in recent weeks denouncing the coup and the arrest and trial of her husband. Police have begun action against her for remarks criticising the military government. Together with the ban on open air political gatherings came a renewal of the promise that local government elections will be held by the end of this year.

Banned politcal rallies { March 15 2000 } Musharraf broad powers { August 21 2002 } Musharraf gives up military powers { November 29 2007 } Musharraf opposition and muslims take power { February 20 2008 } Musharraf redraws constitution { August 22 2002 } Pakistan president declares emergency rule { November 6 2007 } Files Listed: 6

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