Nawaz's disqualification triggers strong protest

LAHORE-The Lahore High Court decision barring PML-N chief Mian Nawaz Sharif to contest election for a National Assembly seat, triggered strong protest in Punjab Assembly where assembly members belonging to the PML (N) and the PPP registered their protest both inside and outside the House shouting slogans against President Musharraf and what they called the PCO judges.

The Punjab Assembly was engaged in budget debate when a PML (N) member Mohsin Latif on a point of order drew Deputy Speaker Rana Mashhood's attention towards the LHC decision at 6:35 pm. This sparked protest in the House as members shouted slogans of "Go Musharraf Go" and "PCO judges Na Manzoor", while condemning the court decision. Terming it conspiracy against democracy the PML-N members demanded adjournment of the session to lodge protest outside the assembly. Punjab Minister for Food Nadeem Kamran demanded impeachment of President Musharraf, saying nation should get rid of Musharraf now.

The deputy speaker adjourned the session at around 6:40 pm, which was scheduled to continue till 9 pm. He observed that PCO judges could not be allowed to play havoc with fate of the nation and breach its trust.